Diary of the American Revolution : from newspapers and original documents

UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH

Darlington M.emorial Library

^•^^^.

W'UMM 4 „,rV DARLINGTON
"EMOBMl IIBRABV

DIARY

AMERICAN REYOLUTION,

FEOM

NEWSPAPERS AND OPJGINAL DOCUMENTS.

BT

FRAI^K MOORE.

VOL. n.

NEW YORK:
CHARLES SCRIBNER, GRAND STREET.

LONDON :
LOW, SON & COMPANY.

MDCCCLX.

DIARY OF THE REVOLUTION.

C II APT Ell I,

jAxrAEY 1. — ^Vt the opening of tlic last year, the Ameri-
can canse Avore a sickly aspect. The Continental army, reduced
to an inconsiderable body, retired as fast as the g^to ^f Affairs
enemy advanced; and a vast tract of country, in America,
from the Hudson ]Ai\-cr to the Delaware, lay exposed to the
ravages of an insulting foe. Housed at length from the leth-
argy which at first seemed to seize them, the militia poured
in to the assistance of General Washington, and gave his
little army an appearance of niimbers. The fortunate surpri-
sal of the Hessians, and the brilliant manoeuvre at Princeton,
first checked the current of misfortune, and gave the tide of
affairs a contrary direction. General Howe, confining himself
to the narrow limits of Brunswick and Aniboy, suftered us to
invest him with a handful of militia. The States M'isely im-
proved the breathing spell which Heaven lent them ; and such
were the exertions of the winter, that, before the British army
took the field, we had a respectable force on foot. A force,
part of which, assisted by the gallant militia of New York and
ISTew England, hath destroyed their northern army ; while the
residue, though ujiable to stop the progress of General Howe,
hath nevertheless fought him bravely, and even now limits his
conquests to "just so much temtory as he can command with
the mouths of his cannon." It is true the British are in pos-
session of the first city on the continent ; the loss is deeply felt
by the unhappy citizens. But America disdains to say she
sufi'ers by the event.

Thus the new year opens favorably upon us, bi;t what its

4: DLUIY OF THE KEVOLCTION. [1778.

future complexion will be, depends upon tlie manner in wliicli
Ave employ the present winter. Heaven hath indeed smiled
iqjon us ; but some drops of bitterness hath been kindly min-
gled in the cup of joy, lest the draught should intoxicate and
lull lis to sleep. Our successes encourage the most sanguine
hopes ; our losses forbid the least presiimption. The power of
the enemy, and the resources of Britain, are not to be despised ;
and if j^rosperity betrays us into security, if we think the work
is done, and become remiss in our exertions, our successes have
only smoothed the way to destruction, and the laurels which
entwine our brows serve but as ornaments to deck us for the
sacrifice.

Hitherto the regular force which we have kept on foot hath
been no ways proportionate to the strength of the States, or
the importance of the object it was raised to secure. It would
have been useless to have had more men in the field than we
coxild supply with arms, ammunition, and other military stores ;
hence our operations against the enemy's main army have
been feeble and indecisive ; and the general, checking the im-
pulses of his own gallant and enterprising spirit, has been
obliged to consult the safety of America by jirotraction and
delay. But, tlirough the blessing of Heaven, we can now arm
thousands with muskets of the best kind, and of one calibre ;
Avc have artillery, ammunition, and camp equij^age in abun-
dance, and can feed and pay our troops without difiiculty.
The period is therefore arrived, when, by arming our beloved
general with the united force of the States, we shall enable
him to take the field with a superiority of strength, and which
will insure him all those advantages (and they are neither few
nor small) which assailants ever have over those who act on
the defensive.

Tliis can only be done by immediately filling up the Con-
tinental regiments, and whatever mode the States devise for
raising men, it is of the highest importance that it be speedily
adoj^ted and A'igorously pursued. The present winter is
worth millions to America , and if she idles it away, her folly
will be witliout a parallel. We have every argument that can
work upon our hopes and fears, to excite tis to the most stren-

ITTS.] BATTLE OF THE KEGS. 5

uous exertions. Peace, liberty, and safety, lie before ns as the
reward of our exertions. Lifamy, distress, and all that we
have felt and feared from the tyranny of Britain, may bo the
consequence of supineness and inaction. The main army of
the enemy is in our country, and still formidable. Britain,
enraged at the loss of her northern army, will exert her utmost
power, and having no troops in Canada to reinforce, will direct
her undivided strength against the Middle States. "VYe, too,
thank Heaven, can meet theni with an undivided army ; but
we must increase its numbers to insiire its success.

Let us, then, make one general and mighty effort ; and if
we can but rouse the unwieldy sti-ength of these States, and
bring their united force against the enemy, the contest will at
once be over, and the footsteps of tyranny shall never mark
this land of freedom more."

A LATE London paper has the following article, which may
perhaps account for Silas Deane's unexpected arrival from
France, at Portsmouth, Xew Hampshire: — ^"They write from
Paris, that Silas Deane meets with repeated insults every time
he goes through the streets of that city, and is pointed at by the
populace as one of the wretches who meditated the ruin of his
country, by the basest stratagems. Tlie old fox, Franklin, se-
cures himself from similar treatment, by silence and seclusion.'"

Jai^uart 6. — PmLADELPHLi. has been entertained with a
most astonishing instance of the activity, bravery, and military
skill of the royal navy of Great Britain. The atTair jj^,,,^ ^,(. j^^
is somewhat particular, and deserves notice. '^''=^-
Some time last week, two boys observed a keg of a singular
construction, floating in the river opjiosite to the city ; they got
into a small boat, and attempting to take up the keg, it burst
with a great explosion, and blew up the unfortunate boys.
Yesterday, several kegs of a like constnxction made their ap-
pearance. An alarm was immediately spread through the
city ; various reports prevailed, filling the city and the royal

' "Adolphus," in the New Jersey Gazette, January 21.
' Pennsylvania Ledger, January 3.

6 DIAEY OF THE KEVOLtlTION. [1T7S.

troops with consternation. Some reported tliat the kegs were
filled with armed rebels, who were to issue forth in the dead
of night, as the Grecians did of old from their wooden horse at
the siege of Troy, and take the city by sm-prise ; asserting that
they had seen the points of their bayonets throngh the bnng-
holes of the kegs. Others said they were charged with the
most inveterate combustibles, to be kindled by secret machine-
ry, and setting the whole Delaware in flames, Avere to consume
all the shipping in the harbor ; whilst others asserted that they
were constructed by art magic, would of themselves ascend the
wharves in the night time, and roll all flaming through the
streets of the city, destroying every thing in their way. Be
this as it may, certain it is that the shipping in the harbor, and
all the Avharves in the city were fully manned, the battle be-
gan, and it was surprising to behold the incessant blaze that
was kept up against the enemy, the kegs. Both officers and
men exhibited the most unjDaralleled skill and bravery on the
occasion ; whilst the citizens stood gazing as solemn M'itnesses
of their prowess. From the Roebuck and other ships of war,
whole broadsides were poured into the Delaware. In short,
not a wandering ship, stick, or drift log, but felt the vigor of
the British arms. The action began about sunrise, and Avould
have been completed with great success by noon, had not an
old market woman coming down the river M'ith provisions,
unfortunately let a small keg of butter fall overboard, which
(as it was then ebb) floated down to the scene of action. At
sight of this unexpected reinforcement of the enemy, the battle
was renewed with fresh fury, and the firing was incessant till
the evening closed the affair. The kegs Avere either totally de-
molished or obliged to fly, as none of them have shown then-
heads since. It is said his Excellency, Lord Howe, has de-
spatched a swift sailing packet with an accoimt of this victory
to the court of London. In a word, Monday, the fifth of Jan-
uary, 1778, must ever be distinguished in history for the mem-
orable Battle of tue Ivegs.'

' Extract of a letter from Philadelphia in the New Jersey Gazette, January 21.
A writer in the rennsylvania Ledger, of February 11, says, in reference to this
event : — " The town of Philadelphia not being as fully acquainted with the subject

1778.] IIAKCOCK AND ADAMS. 7

A coEEESPONDEXT, wlio -wlshcs to liavG a spirit of activity
and enterprise encouraged in the American army, lias furnislied
lis with the following anecdote, which may be depended iipon :
"A troop of dragoons in Colonel Bland's regiment, seldom
having more than twenty-five men and horses fit for duty, has,
since the first of August last, taken one hundred and twenty-
four British and Hessian privates, besides four commissioned
officers, with the loss of only one horse. This gallant corps is
under the command of Captain Lee, Lieutenant Lindsay, and
Cornet Peyton, whose merits and services, it is hoped, will
not be passed unnoticed or unrewarded." '

An irreconcilable difference has certainly taken place be-
twixt those ejninent worthies, John Hancock and Samuel
Adams, Esquires. Fortune, in one of her highest frolics,
elevated those malignant stars to the zenith of power. The
baneful influence of their conjunction in the western political
hemisphere has produced direful eftects ; but when the lunacy
of the former is separated from the villaiiies of the latter, the
deluge of destruction that was certainly, though slowly, rolling
after them, v/ill rapidly come on and overwhelm them and
their infatuated votaries in prodigious ruin."

We are told in the Philadelphia papers, that General Lord

of the letter taken from a Burlington paper, as the ingenious author would have his
readers believe them to be, it may be necessary to relate to them the fact. At
the time it happened it was so trilling as not to be thought worthy of notice in
this paper ; and we do not doubt but our readers will allow this letter-writer full
credit for the fertility of his invention. The case was, that on the fifth of January
last, a barrel of an odd appearance came floating down the Delaware, opposite
tlie town, and attracted the attention of some boys, who went in pursuit of it, and
had scarcely got possession of it when it blew up, and either liilled or injured one
or more of them. So far the matter was serious, and the fellow who invented the
mischief may quit his conscience of the murder or injury done the lads, as well
as he can. Some days after, a few others of much the same appearance, and
some in the form of buoys, came floating in like manner, and a few guns were,
we believe, fired at them from some of the transports lying along the wharves.
Other than this no notice was taken of them, except, indeed, by our author, whose
imagination, perhaps, as fertile as his invention, realized to himself in the frenzy
of his enthusiasm the matters he has set forth."

' New Jersey Gazette, January 14. '' Pennsylvania Ledger, March 7.

8 DIAEY OF THE EEVOLUTION. [1778.

Cornwallis embarked for England. " It is an undoubted fact,"
says a correspondent, " tbat he has embarked for England in a
leaden coffin, a sample of the vigor of the American arms.
We hope to pay off all our English debts by the like remit-
tances." "

Januaey 20. — ^Yesteedat, died, in the sixty-sixth year of

his age, Francis Furgler, the hermit, who existed alone twenty-

FurRicr the ^^'^ years, in a thick wood about four miles from

Hermit. Burliugton, in New Jersey, through all the in-
clemencies of the season, without fire, in a cell made by the
side of an old log in form of a small oven, not high or long
enough to stand upright in or lie extended. His recluse man-
ner of living excited the curiosity of strangers, by whom he
was often visited. His reasons for thus excluding himself
from human society we believe he never communicated to any
person in these parts ; but it is thought he meant by it to do
penance for crimes committed m his own country, for he was a
man subject to violent passions. He subsisted upon nuts, and
the charity of people in the neighborhood. From whence he
came, or who he was, nobody could find out ; but appeared
to be, by his dialect, a German : yet he spoke that language
imperfectly, either through design, or from a defect in his in-
tellect. Just before his death a friend carried him a little
nourishment, of which he partook, earnestly praying for his
dissolution, and would not suffer himself to be removed to a
more comfortable dwelling. Next morning he was found dead
in his cell, with a crucifix and a brass fish by his side ; and to-
day he was decently interred in Friend's burying place at
Mount Holly."

Yesteedat, being the anniversary of the birth of her royal
Majesty, the queen, the same was celebrated with great rejoic-
ing in New York. A correspondent in Eivington's Gazette,

' New Jersey Gazette, January 14. We hear that on Friday last, Lord Corn-
wallis, General Cliveland, Sir George Osborne, and the Reverend Jacob Duclie,
sailed from Philadelphia for England.— iVcio Jersey Gazette, December 24, 1777.

■' New Jersey Gazette, January 28.

1778.] CELEBRATION IN NEW TOEK. 9

gives the following accoimt of the evening's entertainment:
" As the loyalty even of individuals onglit at this time to be
properly enconraged, you will infinitely oblige Queen's Birthday
the public and a number of your readers, by NewToru.
inserting a description of the grand and elegant illuminations
at the King's Head Tavern, on last evening, in honor of her
Majesty's birthday ; and it is the desire of the public, as
Messrs. Loosely and Elms have ever shown their attachment
to the British government, and a detestation of the present
rebellion, that through the channel of your much esteemed
paper their conduct may be knowTi and approved of in Eu-
rope, as well as by the loyalists in New York. The tavern
was illuminated with upwards of two hundred wax lights. In
the centre were the royal arms of Great Britain, and above it,
statues of the present King and Queen under a canopy of state
elegantly decorated, which shone like their Majesties' virtues —
conspicuous to the world. Tlie view of the reduction of Mud
Fort (on one side) by his Majesty's ships, Koebuck and Vigi-
lant, gave that joy which Britons always feel on the success
and honor of their country. On the other side, their generous
indignation was roused by a view of those men (the Congress)
whose ambition has almost ruined this once happy country,
and reduced its inhabitants to the greatest distress. It was
very ajyt'opos of the painter to place the devil ai the president's
elbow, who tells him to persevere with so significant a grin as
seems to indicate his having no manner of doubt of their
making his house their home in the infernal regions. Tlie
statue of Mr. Pitt, without its head, Avas placed near the Con-
gress, as being one of their kidney, and gave a hint of what
ought long ago to have been done. The verses over the tavern
door were very proper on the occasion, and well illuminated.
In short, every thing was well conducted, and the totd ensemlle
had really a fine effect ; much is due to Messrs. Loosely and
Elms for their patriotic spirit, which merits the approbation
of every man who is a friend to his King and country." '

' Rivington's Gazette, January 24.

10 DIAEY OF THE EEVOLUTION. [1778.

Jantjaey 21. — Captain Lee,' wlio has for some time past
been posted at Yalley Forge with his troops, has added aii-
Attempt to sur- Other cubit to his fame. General Howe, longing
prise Captain Lee. ^q pQ^ ^-j^q Americans of this gallant yoiing officer,
whose attention in observing his motions, and address in sur-
prising his parties perplexed him so much the last campaign,
detached a large body of horse (said to be two hundred) to
surprise him yesterday morning. By the assistance of a guide,
who conducted them through by-roads, they avoided the videts,
and surrounded the house where Captain Lee lay so suddenly
that he had scarcely time to bolt the doors before they began
a smart firing into the windows, and demanded the immediate
surrender of the house. Major Jemmason, (of the same regi-
ment with Captaiu Lee, and who lodged with him that night,)
Lieiitenant Lindsay, and five private troopers, were all that
were with Lee at that time ; the rest of the troops being quar-
tered in a neighboring house. They returned the fire from
the windows with spirit ; and, by showing themselves at dif-
ferent places, made as great an appearance of numbers as
possible. Tlie enemy, after firing and threatening about
twenty-five minutes, finding so gallant and determined a resist-
ance, and having several of their men badly wounded, gave
over their attempt and rode off full speed for Philadelphia.
Tliey made prisoners of four of the troop who happened to
be out of the house when they surrounded it, and Major Jem-
mason and Lieutenant Lindsay were both slightly wounded.
Thus this handful of brave officers and men, " by their infinite
address and gallantry," repulsed a formidable body of horse
sent on purpose to take them."

' Henry Lee.

' New Jersey Gazette, January 28. General Washington's sense of the spirited
conduct of Captain Lee and liis troops, appears in the following words: — "The
Commander-in-chief returns his warmest thanks to Captain Lee and the officers
and men in his troop, for the victory which their superior bravery and address
gained over a party of the enemy's dragoons, who, trusting in their numbers, and
concealing their march in a circuitous route, attempted to surprise them in their
quarters. He has the satisfaction of informing the army that Captain Lee's vigil-
ance baffled the enemy's design ; that by judiciously posting his men in quarters,
although he had not a sufficient number to allow one to each window, he obliged

1778.] JOHN HANCOCK. H

When Colonel Webb, with some others, Tvere taken in a
late expedition to Long Island, a little fifer of the smallest size,
belonging to the State of Connecticxit, was made ,j,^^ Connecticut
prisoner with them, and carried into Rhode Isl- *'"'"' ^"5'-
and. Tlie colonel being called before the British general, the
little fifer fondly followed close at his heels, as anxious to know
his fate. Says the general to him, " Who are yon ? " "I
am," answered the boy, " one of King IlancocTcs men." The
general asks, " Can you fight ? " The boy replies, " Yes, sir ;
I can." Upon this the general calls in one of his fifers, and
asks our stripling whether he dare fight him ? lie answers,
" Yes, sir." Tlie general orders his fifer to strip and give him
battle. Tlie boy stripped as fast, and fell on with such fury
"that in a few moments the British fifer was so beaten that it
was thought our little hero would soon have finished him, had
he not been rescued. The British general, with a generosity
natural to great minds, but seldom displayed by modern Brit-
ons, ordered him to be set at liberty for his valor, and he is
since returned home.'

Januaey 29. — A GENTLEALiN from the eastward says — ■" That
John Hancock, of Boston, appears in public with all the pa-
geantry and state of an Oriental prince ; he rides in

, , . , . 1 , . . Jolm Hancock.

an elegant chariot, which was taken in a prize to
the Civil Usage pirate vessel," and by the owners presented to
him. He is attended by four servants, dressed in superb livery,
mounted on fine horses, richly caparisoned, and escorted by
fifty horsemen, with drawn sabres, the one-half of whom pre-

the party, consisting of two lumdreJ men, dissriracefuUy to retire, after repeated,
but fruitless attempts to force their way into the house, leaving behind two dead
and four wounded, without receiring any damage on his part, save only his lieu-
tenant, Mr. Lindsay, wounded, unless any of his out-patroles should have been un-
fortunately surrounded and taken, which is not yet known." — Kew Jersey Gazette,
February 4, 1178.

' Kew Jersey Gazette, Jan\iary 21 .

' The owners of the privateer. Civil Usage, of Newburyport, have made a
present to the Honorable John Hancock, Esq., of an elegant coach which was
lately taken in one of their prizes, as a token of their respect for that gentleman,
who has so nobly distinguished himself in the present contest with Great Britain,
as the friend of his country. — New Jersey Gazette, January 21.

DIAEY OF TUE EEVOLUTION. [1778.

cede and the other follow his carriage." [So at present i
the man who owes his greatness to his country's ruin.]

" Among other detestable pretexts fabricated by the infa-
moiis rebels to justify the detention of Lieutenant-General Bur-
goyne and the troops under his command, the equivocal re-
volted Yankees pretend a discovery of several stands of colors,
belonging to British regiments, secreted by him, which they vow
is a violation of the treaty concluded between him and General
Gates." [By such villanoiis assertions, which have no founda-
tion in truth, they mask their infernal pertidy, which is of so
enormous a magnitude that it absorbs every ideaof pmiic faith.] '

Should the report of General Bnrgoyne's having infi-inged
the capitulation between Major-General Gates and himself,
Proposal for Bur- P^'O'^'G to bc truB, our supcriors wiU doubtless take
goyntjs Ksciiaiige. proper carc to prevent his reaping any benefit
from it ; and should he be detained as a prisoner for his infrac-
tion of any of the articles, I would humbly propose to exchange
him in such manner as will at the same time flatter his vanity,
and redound to the greatest emolument of America. To
evince the reasonableness of my proposal, I would observe
that by the same parity of reason that a General is exchanged
for a General, a Colonel for a Colonel, and so on with respect
to other ofiieers of equal rank, we ought to have for one and
the same gentleman, who shall liappen to hold both those
offices, both a general and a colonel. Tliis will appear evi-
dent from the consideration that those exchanges are never
regulated by viewing the persons exchanged in the light of
men, but as officers ; since otherwise a colonel might as well
be exchanged for a sergeant, as for an officer of his own rank,
a sergeant being undoubtedly equally a man, and as the case
sometimes happens, more of a man too. One prisoner, there-
fore, having twenty different offices, ought to redeem from
captivity twenty prisoners aggregately liolding the same of-
fices ; or such greater or less number as shall, with respect to
rank, be equal to his twenty offices. Tliis being admitted, I

' rcnns3'lvama Ledger, March 11.

177S.] bukgoyxe's exchange. 13

tliink General Burgoyne is the most profitable prisoner we
could Lave taken, Laving more offices, or (what amounts to
the same thing in Old England) more titles, tLan any gentle-
man on this side the Ganges. And as his impetuous excel-
lency certainly meant to avail himself of Lis titles, by tLeir
pompous display in his proclanaation, had he proved conqueror,
it is but reasonable that we should avail ourselves of them now
he is conquered ; and till I meet with a better project for that
purpose, I persuade myself that the following proposal will
appropriate tliem to a much better use than they were ever
applied to before.

The excliange I propose is as follows :

For John Burgoyne, Esquire: some worthy Justice of the
Peace, magnanimously stolen out of his bed, or taken from liis
farm by a band of ruffians in the uniform of British soldiers,
and now probably perishing with hunger and cold in a loath-
some gaol in New York.

For John Burgoyne, Lieutenant-General of his Majesty's
armies in America: two Majors-General.

For John Burgoyne, Colonel of the Quecn^s regiment of
Light Dragoons : As the British troops naturally prize every
thing in proportion as it partakes of royalty, and undervalue
whatever originates from a reijublican government, I suppose
a colonel of her Majesty's own regiment will procure at least
three Continental Colonels of horse.

For John Burgoyne, Governor of Fort William in JVorth
Britain : Here I would demand one Governor of one of the
United States, as his multitiilary excellency is Governor of a
fort, and two more as that fort, is in ISTorth Britain, which his
Britannic Majesty may be presumed to value in that propor-
tion; but considering that tlie said fort is called "William,
which may excite in liis Majesty's mind the i-ebellious idea of
liberty, I deduct one upon that account, and rather tlian puzzle
the cartel with any perplexity, I am content with two gov-
ernors.

For John Burgoyne, one of the Eepresentatives of Great
Britain: the first Member of Congress who may fall into the
enemy's hands.

14 DIAET OF THE EEVOLUTION. [1778.

For John Burgoyne, Commander of a fleet employed in an
expedition from Canada: tlie Admiral of our Navy.

For John Burgoyne, Commander of an army employed in
an expedition from Canada: one Commander-iii-cliief in any
of our departments.

For John Burgoyne, c&c., c&c., dkc. Some connoisseurs in
liieroglyphics imagine that these three et ceteras are emblemat-
ical of three certain occult qualities in the general, which he
never intends to exhibit in more legible characters, viz . : pru-
dence, modesty, and humanity. Others suppose that they
stand for King of America ; and that had he proved success-
ful, he would liave fallen i;pon General Howe, and afterwards
have set up for himself. Be this as it may, (which it however
behooves a certain gentleman on the other side of the water
seriously to consider,) I insist iipon it, that as all dark and cabal-
istical characters are suspicious, these incognoscible enigmas
may portend much more than is generally apprehended. At
all events. General Biirgojme has availed himself of their im-
portance, and I doubt not they excited as much teiTor in his
proclamation as any of his more luminous titles. As his per-
son therefore is, by the capture, become the property of the
Congress, all his titles, (which some suppose to constitute his
very essence,) whether more splendid or opaque, latent or
visible, are become ip^so facto the lawful goods and chattels of
the continent, and ought not to be restored without a consider-
ation equivalent. If we should happen to oven-ate them, it is
his own fault, it being in his power to ascertain their intrinsic
value ; and it is a rule in law, that when a man is possessed of
evidence to disprove what is alleged against him, and he re-
fuses to produce it, the presumption raised against him is to be
taken for granted. Certain it is that these three et ceteras must
stand for three somethings, and as these three somethings must,
at least, be equal to three somethings without rank or title, I
had some thoughts of setting them down for three privates ;
but then as they are three somethings in General Burgoyne,
which must bo of twice tlie value of three anytliings in any
three privates, I shall only double them, and denuuid in ex-
change for these tliree problenmtieal, enigmatical, liicroglyphi-

1778.] HrGH gaine's news. 15

cal, mystic, necromantic, cabalistical and portentous et ccteras,
six privates.

So that, according to my plan, we ought to detain this
ideal conqueror of the north, now a real prisoner in the east,
till we have got in exchange for him, one esquire, two majors-
general, three colonels of light horse, two governors, one
member of Congress, the admiral of our navy, one commander-
in-chief in a separate department, and six privates ; which is
probably more than this extraordinary hero would fetch in any
part of Great Britain, were he exposed at public auction for a
day and a year. All which is humbly submitted to the con-
sideration of the honorable the Congress, and his Excellency
General "Washington."

It is said that Mr. "Washington is using his best endeavors
to accomplish a reconciliation, which we scarce believe, al-
though it is most devoutly wished even by the rebels them-
selves. Tlio northern rebels stand high in the estimation of
their southern brethren, from the sense they have of the great
tilings accomplished by them to the northward, over one of
the best but most unfortunate of the British generals.

Mr. "Washington has returned the Congress paper money
sent out for the iise of prisoners. Tlie royal army is in good
quarters, enjoys the highest health and the finest spirits, and
wishes most ardently to bo engaged. We have at present but
little of the petite guerre. Provisions are plenty, and I think
daily increasing, notwithstanding the rebels are taking' every
method to starve the garrison in Philadelphia by removing
forage and provisions far into the country."

Febetjjlet 4. — Among the many circumstances that will
emblazon the history of the present rebellion in America, we
think the following, with some others no less true,
M'ill serve to show the generous and liberal prin-
ciples upon which the present leaders are capable of acting :
On the 17th of last month, Mr. Shaw, of Bucks county, in Penn-

' " Hortentius," in the New Jersey Gazette, December 17, 1Y7Y.
' Extract of a letter from Philadelphia, in Rivington's Gazette, February 21.

16 DIAEY OF THE EEVOLCTION. [1778.

sylvania, fell in with TV. Brittain, of Elizabetlitown, New Jersey,
a captain of Lord Stirling's division, and a Lieutenant Van
Pelt, of New Britain, at the house of a certain Eobert Ewer,
when said Shaw, expressing his satisfaction at the success of
the British arms, enraged them to such a degree that they re-
solved to hang him ; and cutting the strap from a saddle, fixed
it round his neck, and hung him iij) till he was almost dead:
then let him down again until he had revived. AVhen he had
recovered the use of his speech, they asked if he would now
fight for King George, and he replying that he was too old,
but that his son should, they immediately tied him up again,
and would have left him strangle, had not the women of the
house interfered, and rescued him from them. He was so far
gone that his tongue hung out of his mouth, after which they
kicked him and beat him, so that he lay ill for some time.

Tlie account that we have had that the grand American
Congress could make no more dollars for want of rags, proves
altogether a mistake, for independent of the large supply ex-
pected from "Washington's army as soon as they can be spared,
we have reason to believe the country in general never abounded
more in that article.

Yesterday, no less than thirteen sergeants and a corporal,
belonging to Colonel Proctor's regiment of artillery, in the
rebel service, and a number of privates from other regiments,
came in to Philadelphia. The accounts they give of Mr,
Washington's army are distressing beyond description.

Tlie Congress, notwithstanding all the articles their difl"er-
cnt printers and printers' correspondents are forging, of the
preparations of France and Spain for war, are by this time, we
imagine, pretty well satisfied that they have nothing to expect
from those courts. Tlic letter from Dr. Franklin, witli not a
syllable in it, sealed and superscribed with his own hand, and
delivered to the committee of Congress by the captain liimself
who brought it, must make them look as blank as the letter
itself was — indeed it so mueli chagrined them, that, M'c hear,
they have confined the captain who brought it in jail, and
pretend it is an imposition.'

' See Gordon's American Revolution, vol. 2, p. 323.

1778.] EUMOKS IN NEW YORK. 17

The public may be assi;red it is an undoubted fact that tlie
court of France is positively, and has in earnest determined,
that they will show no countenance whatever to the rebellion
in America — have given the most satisfactory assm-ances that
they will not assist the Americans in any manner, or siifler
their vessels to trade at their ports.

Yesterday a number of the -s-irtuons inliabitants of New
Jersey, tired of the oppression of their new government, gave
a proof of their loyalty and attachment to his Majesty, by
seizing the person of one "Wilson, collector of the substitute
fines in that province, and bringing him in to the British head
quarters. This example, it is hoped, will be followed by the
injured and distressed people of Pennsylvania and New Jer-
sey, as they cannot doubt but their loyalty will meet with
every reasonable encouragement.'

Febeuaey 6. — Captain Giffokd Dallet, of Morristown,
in Jersey, says, that on the second instant Governor Living-
ston told him that he had received a letter from a Eumors in
gentleman in New York, infonning the governor ^"^ '^°'^-
that in a late London paper which had just come in, it is asserted
that the mob had rose in London, had pulled down and destroyed
Lords Bute and North's houses ; that the mobs were frequent
and violent against the King and Parliament ; that his Majesty
was frequently insulted, and to avoid the rage of the jjopulace
was obliged to keep himself retired ; that no foreign troops
are coming to America ; that the manufacturers stamp their
cloths with " American Liberty y " that several persons speaking
in favor of ministerial measures had been killed by the mobs.
Tlie governor further added, that it is reported in New York
that Lord Chatham was offered to be at the head of adminis-
tration, which he declined unless the King and Parliament
would confirm the independency of America ; make peace
with her at all events, and declare war against France.

[Li consequence of the above important intelligence arriv-
ing at Lancaster, they had bonfires and a ball on the occasion.

' Xew York Gazette, February 23.

18 DIAEY OF THE KEVOLUTION. [1778.

Such are the means taken by this people to impose upon the
credixlous and unwary : that to give their intelligence the ap-
pearance of truth they have either a feu dejoie with a gill of
whiskey in their camp, or some other kind of rejoicings ; and
yet it is hardly to be imagined, notwithstanding all their strat-
agems of this kind, that even the blind followers of these
wicked votaries of rapine and murder can credit such absurd
and notorious falsehoods.] '

Febeuaet 11. — A WEITEE in the New Jersey Gazette of this
date, gives the following annotations upon " his most gracious
Majesty of most gracious Great Britain's most gracious speech :" "

" It is a great satisfaction to me that I can have recourse to
the wisdom and support of my Parliament in this conjunc-
Annotntionsonthe^"''*^-" — '^'^ doubt it is & Satisfaction to your Maj-

King's Speech, ^g^y ^q j^g r^^-y^ ^^ ^^p^J^ f^j. ^^^}^^ ^^ jl^^gg ^^^^

must support you in measures in which themselves are accom-
plices, and who are too dependent upon you to refuse any of
your requisitions. The more money they give you, sir, the
more offices you give them ; and this old trick of one good
timi's deserving another, has more than half ruined the nation
already.

" When the rebellion in North America demands our most
serious attention." — How wonderful that his Majesty begins to
think the reduction of America a serious matter ! Had he and
his Parliament considered at all, they would have thought it a
serious matter when they first began it. But they wanted, it
seems, at least three years to discover that the enslaving tliree
millions of people was a serious undertaking. Notable ge-
niuses, to govern three kingdoms and the western world into
the bargain, who require three years of blood and slaughter,
desolation and havoc, to make them serious !

" Thepoioers you haveintnisted me with, I have faithfully
exerted." — "What powers his Majesty was intrasted with I
know not, but the powers he has exerted have been the ]iowcrs
of breaking his oath, and violating all laws, divine and liu-

' Pennsylvania Ledger, March 7. ^ Delivered December 17, 1777.

1778.] THE king's speech annotated. 19

man ; and if lie undertook to suppress the revolt, he has not
executed his trust, for that he has not done.

^'■But I am persuaded you will see the oiecessity of pre-
paring for such further operations as the contingencies of the
war, and the ohstinacy of the rebels, may render expedient^ —
"Wliat, sir, a necessity for further preparations when General
Gage was to have done the business with four regiments?
Why don't you order the invincible Grant to strike a terror
through the whole continent with a file of musgiieteers ?

"And if I should have occasion to increase them, hy con-
tracting nezo engagements^'' — Worse and worse ! What, in-
crease your troops to beat an undisciplined militia, after having
imported thirty-five thousand already ! And increase them
you certainly must, or quit your purpose with infamy. But
whence to procui-e the augmentation ! aye, that's the question.
The Prince of Hesse will tell you, " hye der donder, ich heVber
nix meer."

" / hccve received repeated assurances from foreign powers
of their pacific dispositions." — And does your Majesty believe
those assurances ? Out of your own mouth will I prove that
you do not, for

" But at the same time, when the armaments in the ports of
France and Sp>ain continue'''' — to confirm, I suppose, the as-
surances of their pacific disposition. AVhat, all the poAvers of
Europe pacific, and France and Spain continiie their hostile
preparations ! For shame, sir ; bastile your speech-maker for
not putting his contradictions at a greater distance than that
of two sentences.

" Iioill cdways hi a faithful guardian of the honor of the
crotmi of Great Britain"— K. very proper keeper of what has
been lost ever since the 25th of October, 1760, the very day
that your Majesty ascended the throne !

" The various services I have mentioned to you will ima-
voidahly require large supplies.'''' — As true a word as ever was
spoken ; and larger supplies than yoiu- Parliament can furnish.
Have you heard, sir, that jowr troops have already been obliged
to take Pennsylvania currency ? And when they cannot rob,
you cannot pay.

DIAFa' OF TIIE EEVOLUTIOX. [1778.

" / will steadily pursue the measures in wldch we are en-
for the re-estdblishmeiit of that subordination^'' &c. —
How long your Majesty intends to pursue, is best known to
yoiirself ; bnt I am confident you must run much faster than
you have ever yet done, or you will not overtake it. By your
constitutional suhordination we imderstand a most tyrannical
domination, which we have long since bequeathed to your
loyal subjects of Great Britain, whom you had previously
prepared to relish that kind of legacy.

'■'■ But I shall ever he watchful for an opportunity of put-
ting a stop to the effusion of the hlood of my subjects, and the
calamities which are inseparable from a state of war.'''' — Eing
the bells ! ring the bells backward ! To church, all hands to
church, for Nero is to give us a sermon against murder, and
Jonathan Wilde an exhortation to abstain from robbery !

" And I still hope that tlie deluded and unhappy multitude
will retwrn to their allegiance^'' — And when the sky falls we
sliall catch larks. And so the late insignificant faction is now
multiplied to a omdtitude. Lideed, did you but know, sir,
what a multitude it is, you would as soon think of levelling
Mount Etna as of conqiiering America. But they are not de-
luded, sir. Tliey know that yon had projected their slavery ;
and they will not be enslaved. If there be any delusion in
the case it is the British nation that is deluded, and it is de-
luded by you, and yourself are dehided by a set of villains
who expected to have divided our estates upon the success of
your arms. Allegiance we owe you none. Tlien, sir, did we
show our allegiance when we lay prostrate at your throne,
supplicating for the continuation of those liberties which God
and nature and the law had given us, and when you spurned
us from it.

" That the remembrance of what they once enjoyed, the regret
of what they have lost, and the feelings of what they now suf-
fer under the tyranny of their leaders, will relcindle in their
hearts a, sjnrit of loyalty to their sovereign, and of their at-
tachment to their mother country P — If you will be pleased,
sir, to allow yourself a moment's reflection, you will find they
have lost nothing that was worth keeping. They have lost

1778.] THE kestg's speech. 21

nothing but the pleasure of being oppressed under color of
law, and of enriching myriads of harpies of your appoint-
ment, and appointed for the express purpose of fleecing them,
and of lavishing the fruits of their toil and labor in British lux-
ury and riot. Is this a loss to be regretted ? If it is, I know
who will regret it. Their feelings indeed are very great, and
for them you must answer at that awful bar, where your roy-
alty will but aggravate your condemnation. As to the tyran-
ny of their leaders, it is indeed so gross and threadbare an
absurdity, that I would advise your Majesty to drop it for the
future for the mere sake of its vulgarity. In this contest the
people in reality had Ao leaders. They fled, spontaneoiisly
and self-led, to extinguish the common fire, and for conducting
with the greater regularity the measures wliieli you compel
them to adopt ; they afterwards appointed the proper ofiicers.
Those oificers (which to serve your purpose you call leaders)
cannot tyrannize over them, because they are constituted by
the people, and by them removable. Nor will any considera-
tion rekindle in their hearts a spirit of loyalty to their former
sovereign. Tliat flame, sir, and an ardent one it was, and more
ardent than that of your subjects in Britain, you have extin-
guished, totally extinguished, with torrents of blood, not leav-
ing a single sj)ark to light up the ancient blaze. And as for
their mother countinj — America, sir, is our mother country, and
Great Britain, making the most of the figure, could never
claim to be more than oiir grandmother ; and that she has
been a most unnatural one, is written in such characters of
blood as none of your flimsy coaxings will ever obliterate.

'■'•And that they will encdJle me, with the concurrence and
support of my Parliament, to accomplish^ — And so we are
to assist the Parliament, it seems, in effecting our own bond-
age. Pray, sir, do not flatter yourself with so vain an im-
agination. "We have too great a reverence for the instructions
of our mother to follow the insidious advice of our grand-
mother, so evidently calculated for our destruction.'

' " Hortentius," ia the New Jersey Gazette, February 11.

22 DIAET OF THE EEYOLIJTION. [1778.

Feeeuaey 14. — "When the following letter appeared in an
English newspaper at Charleston, South Carolina, consistent
with the modern plan of American liberty, a young gentleman
of that place was apprehended on suspicion of being the au-
thor, and thrown into jail, where, we believe, he remains to
this day :

A FAMILIAR EPISTLE FROM AMERICA.

Excuse me, dear fiiend, I can't think it true,

Tho' Solomon says it, that nothing is new :

Had he liv'd in these times we had rather been tpld.

Our West world's so new, it has nothing that's old :

But should he insist his old way to have it,

I would beg leave to ask of this wise son of David,

A few simple questions ; as where ho e'er saw

Men legally punish'd for not breaking the law ;

Tarr'd, feather'd, and carted, for drinking bohea,

And by force and oppression compelled to be free ?

The same men maintaining that all human kind
Are, have been, and shall be, as free as the wind ;
Yet impaling and burning their slaves for believing
The truth of the lessons they're constantly giving ;
Or what financiers, politicians, or sages.
In the past or the antediluvian ages.
He ever had seen, ever heard of, or read.
Who to raise funds for war first abolished their trade ?
» And, having all channels of commerce obstructed,

By which gold and silver to States are inducted,
In an instant more riches from paper produce,
Or the quill of a gray cabaUstical goose,
Than all the disciples of sage Rosicrusius,
Ever made from their talisman, stones, and their cruoes.
Not only from nothing our money appears.
From nothing our hopes, and from nothing our fears ;
From nothing our statesmen, our army, and fleet,
From nothing they came, and to nought they'll retreat.
And no arms they handle so well as their feet.

Bown at night a bricklayer, or carpenter lies,
Next sun a Lycurgus, a Solon doth rise ;
While doctors, who never made curing their trade.
Give a bolus of iron, or a pill all of lead.
But still counteracted by blunders and fate,
Tho' they murder'd in friendship, they spare in their hate.

1778.] NEWS FEOM FRANCE. 23

Priests, tailors, and cobblers, fill with heroes the camp,
And sailors, lilie craw-fish, crawl out of each swamp ;
Self-created from nought, like a mushroom we see,
Spring an able commander ' by land and by sea ;
Late of Tories the prince, and his country's great foe,
Kow the congress's chairman, a split-shirted beau ;
All titles of honor and profit do wait on,
Judge, General, Counsellor, Admiral Drayton,^
Who never smell'd powder, nor handled a rope,
But infallible more than Lord Peter the Pope ;
Who makes flesh of his bread and blood of his wine.
While Drayton, of schooners, makes ships of the.line,'
Makes all laws of mechanics and nature knock under,
Can cram in an egg-shell a twenty-four pounder ;
Can burn in an instant the whole British navy,
And eat up an army without salt or gravy.'

Feeeuaet 19. — Notwithstanding the Americans have been
stigmatized, in tlie beginning of the war, as coimrcls and pol-
troons, yet these cowards and poltroons have disgraced the
British generals more than any foreign enemy has yet done in
the annals of Britain ; one being taken without his breeches, and
the other obliged to lay down his arms. So says a correspond-
ent in London.'

We have undoubted intelligence that there are lately ar-
rived in Martinico and Guadaloupe, 22,628 French troops ; part
of them sailed the sixth of October from Bordeaux, jj^^^^ ^^,^^
and part of them the ninth of October from St. Ma- France.
lo. They arrived at Martinico the 22d and 27th of November.

' Supposed to be a gentleman formerly confidant to Lord C. M., and then
loaded with all the odium of the patriots, on account of his attachment to gov-
ernment. He was appointed one of the judges in South Carolina by a lieutenant-
governor ; but the appointment was not confirmed, and another gentleman was
sent out from home, immediately on which, as it happened, Mr. D. turned flaming
patriot ; at least it is so reported.

' The uniform of the South Carolina rebels is a hunting shirt, sucn as the
farmers' servants in England.

' These Hnes allude to D.'s ordering a little fleet of schooners to be fitted out
from the port of Charleston; and on board one of them he ordered twenty-four
nine-pounders ; but she was so small, that it was found she could not even float
with above twelve of such guus on board.

* Pennsylvania Ledger, February 14. ' New Jersey Gazette, May 20.

24 DIAEY OF THE EEVOLUTION. [1778.

Eleven thousand eight hundred and thirty-six of the above-
mentioned troops sailed from Martinieo the first of December
for St. Domingo.. They expected every day a third division
of troops from Brest. We also learn that the coast of France,
from Dunkirk to L' Orient, was lined with sixty thousand
troops.

[Rare news indeed ! What a pity such welcome tidings
should want confirmation ! But so it has been from the begin-
ning. After a thousand solemn protestations, disclaiming the
remotest intention of renouncing their allegiance, the Congress
came forth with their Declaration of Independency, because
it was a necessary step in order to procure foreign assistance ;
and, from the date of that declaration to this hour, the people
have been deceived with repeated assurances that the prom-
ised assistance was at hand ; and this tale of French troops ar-
riving in great numbers in the West India islands has been so
often repeated, that, if there was any truth in it, there could
hardly by this time be left a single regiment in France ! And
yet this long looked for French assistance is only to be seen
by the eyes of faith, and those eyes begin to grow very dim !
The people begin to be ashamed of their past credulity ; and
their deceivers, if they had any shame, or any regard for the
welfare of the people, would cease the repetition of those false-
hoods in which they have been so often detected. Mr. Living-
ston himself has at last been modest enough to confess, to his
New Jersey Assembly, that they must not count upon any
foreign assistance, and that the United States must prepare to
renounce their dependence upon sUch " uncertain contingencies,
and rely solely upon themselves and their own resources."] '

Yesterday evening, about eight o'clock, Captain Iloveden,

with a party of twenty-four dragoons, and Captain Tliomas,

Hoveden-s "^^^^ fourteen foot, left Philadelphia, and passed

Excursion, i^to the county of Bucks, and, at the fulling

mill of Mr. Jenks, surprised and took a guard of continental

troops on their post there, guarding a considerable quantity of

' Pennsylvania Lodger, March 21.

1778.] hoyeden's excuesion. 25

cloth belonging to the poor people of the country, of which they
had been robbed by orders from the rebel head-quarters. This
•was performed with that secrecy the principal design recp;ired,
which was to take another party, a small distance off: without
firing a gun, which must have alarmed the other post, they
took prisoners the whole guard. Lnmediately after they pro-
ceeded to Newtown, surprised and took the first sentry without
alarm. On approaching near the quarters of Major Murray,
they were fired upon by the sentry at his door. This alarmed
the guard about fortj^ yards distant, who, being sixteen in
number, and under cover of the guard hoiise, immediately took
to their arms, and discharged their pieces on the troops sur-
rounding them ; but such was their activity and alertness, that,
after returning the fire, and before the enemy could load a
second time, they stormed the house, killed five, wounded four,
and took the rest of the guard prisoners, and with them a con-
siderable quantity of cloth then making up by a number of
worlanen for the rebel army. All this was done with so much
secrecy, conduct, and bravery, that none of either of the pai-
ties received the least injury. About six o'clock this evening
they returned, bringing with them the wounded and the pris-
oners.

Too much commendation cannot be given to this gallant
action. To march twenty-eight miles, take and surprise one,
and storm another of the enemy's posts, kill and make prison-
ers of every officer and private, and to return the same distance,
making in the whole fifty-six miles, in twenty-two hours, and
that without the least injury received, must certainly meet
with the applause of the p^iblic, and do great credit to the offi-
cers who conducted, and the men who, under their direction,
accomplished it,'

The Tories, reduced to their last shift for agreeable news to
strengthen the drooping spirits of their fellows, are now resort-
ing to their imaginations. The following is their last flight of
fancy :

' Pennsylvania Ledger, Fobruary 21.

26 DIAET OF THE EEVOLUTION. [1778.

Beelzebub E. — ^Wliereas it is necessary to tlie extension,
support, and population of our infernal kingdom, that all and

Moioch-s every species of its commerce, arts, sciences, and
Proclamation, pj-jnciples, sliould prevail, flourish, and have a free
and uninterrupted reception upon earth. And, whereas we
and our council have received certain and undoubted informa-
tion, as well through the laudable and zealous communications
of our own agents employed for the purpose, as by the personal
appearance and testimony before our throne of many thousand
persons, who lately belonged and professed allegiance to the
newly erected States of North America, framed by our sugges-
tion and by the help of our agents aforesaid, that there is at
present in the said States the most happy disposition for the
full and perfect admission and entertainment of all our famous
arts, sciences, principles, and commerce ; and that our loving
friends and hearty allies, their leaders and present governors,
do give their most ready assistance and furtherance to that
end and purpose. We therefore, in order to promote all meas-
ures which may tend to establish the dignity of our crown,
the power and influence of our realm of darkness, and the
greater population of our vast territories by more rapid migra-
tions from the regions of the earth, do hereby proclaim, and
engage to bestow, the following rewards and bounties for the
encouragement of such persons, professing subjection to our
cordial and undoubted allies the States aforesaid, as by their
assiduity and labor in our service, or affection to our principles
and interests, may be found to deserve them, viz. :

For the most plausible pretence of loyalty to a sovereign,
penned with the fiillest design to deceive him, and pervert
others from their loyalty — A flaming ribband of the order of
Machiavel, with the grant of two hundred thousand acres of
the most fertile soil yet unlocated, and nearest to our loyal city
of Pandemonium.

For the most hollow professions of attachment to a consti-
tution, which can best answer the purpose of subverting it —
Ditto.

For the most sophistical arguments to prove the right of
subjects to forswear themselves, to take contrary oaths jpro

1778.] Moloch's pkoolamation. 27

renata, and to assert their liberty of destroying those who differ
from them in the notion of liberty — ^Tlie privilege of the next
seat in our coimcil to our well-beloved cousin and counsellor
Belial, Avith one hundred thousand acres in the warmest re-
gions of Tartarus.

For the most virulent perversion of truth and reason,
which can support any of our beloved factions — A post of em-
ployment near our person, and our most burning attachment
and regard.

To every person professing to preach the gospel of Christ,
our most dangerous enemy, who shall subvert its pernicious in-
tention of promoting peace, order, and subjection among men,
and shall, mstead thereof, promote our cause and service by
inculcating sedition and discord — A robe of the darkest sables
in Erehus, warm apartments in our imperial palace, and a
double portion of our increasing favor.

For the most rhetorical panegyric upon any of our faithful
friends, subjects of the States, our allies aforesaid, who may hap-
pen to be sent down to our kingdom earlier than usual by the
British arms — An honorary degree in the uifernal academy of
Sophists, with a suitable benefit.

For the most perfect si^ecimen of impudence and avarice,
cowardice and faction, pride and meanness, connected, which
can be produced by any natural or adopted subject of our allies
aforesaid — A collar of sounding S S, with a separate allotment
in Tartarus, lest Pandemonium itself be endangered by the
complication.

For the best invention to delude a whole people from their
real interests, and destroy them by rebellion — ^Tlie first post of
honor next to our person.

AND in order to display and extend our imperial magnifi-
cence in the most ample manner, and to show our most con-
genial attachment to our allies, the present ruling powers of
the States aforesaid, we do further promise and engage, that
all and every of their subjects or confederates, who shall most
strongly inculcate and improve the arts and sciences first in-
vented in our kingdom, and now, of our especial grace, motion,
and favor, imported from thence into the said States, so as most

28 DIAET OF THE EEVOLTJTIOU-. [1778.

exactly and extensively to assimilate and unite their subjects
to onr subjects now in the realms below, and to render their
country in all quietness, freedom, and satisfaction, the most like
of any other to our own ; so that, in due time, they may be-
come prepared for their final removal to us, by which means
our empire may be further strengthened and populated, and
the independency of our territories more perfectly established,
(in which last measure we hope and expect, above all things,
the aid of oiir dear allies aforesaid ;) shall not only hereafter
receive every reward proportionate to the merit of their respec-
tive services, when they descend to our court and appear in our
presence, but shall also obtain, at present, from us and our
agents, our most hearty suggestions and recommendations to our
dearly beloved and loyal cousins, the congressional representa-
tives of the high and mighty States aforesaid, and to oiir no less
loving and beloved friends the Commander-in-chief, and other'
right noble and worthy commanders, officers, committee-men,
selectmen, and men of all sorts invested with illustrious author-
ity under them, from whose cordial attachment to our interests
and views, as well as affinity to oi;r person, we doubt not they
will receive the most indulgent attention and advancement.

Given at our court at Pandemonium, in the 5S47tIi year of
our reign, and in the year called by mortals 1778. By his in-
fernal Majesty's command — Moloch.^

9. — The Southern States are pursuing the most
vigorous measures for strengthening the hands of General
Prospects of tto Washington the ensuing campaign. Yirginia has
Americans. (Jj-afted two thousaud mcu to recruit her regi-
ments, who are to serve for one j^ar. They have also set on
foot an association for raising five thousand volunteers, to serve
six months ; North Carolina is exerting herself with equal
ardor. The Eastern States, who, in public concerns, always act
with a wisdom and vigor that deserves imitation, have al-
ready begun to draft, being resolved to fill their regiments
completely, and to have them early in the field. K the Middle

' Gainc's Mercury, February 23.

1778.] BEITISH SPIES EXECUTED. 29

States take tlie same resolute steps, (and no doubt they will,)
the next campaign must be decisive. Tlie strength of the
enemy is so mnch reduced, that nothing but our indolence can
prevent their destruction.

We have often tliought it strange that America, who could
bring three or four hundred thousand men into the field, should
so long suffer a paltry banditti to run through her States, and
to nestle in her cities. One would be tempted to imagine that
we were fond of this destructive war ; and yet folly, in her
highest delirium, Avould not wish to protract it. Tliere was a
time when protraction and delay were prudent — even neces-
sary ; but at this time of day they will certainly be injurious,
and may be fatal. Every day the war continues our piiblic
debts will increase — our necessities will multiply — and our cur-
rency depreciate. Britain knows this — she founds her last
hopes upon it ; she no longer expects to conquer us by the
sword, but she flatters herself that our distresses will subdue
our minds, break the spirit of opposition, and dissolve in time
the glorious confederacy in support of freedom. Hence it
will be the policy of her generals to possess themselves of our
towns, to destroy our mamifactures, to block wp our harbors,
and to protract the war. We should change our measures ac-
cordingly— bring our thousands iuto the field — -push the enemy
with vigor — drive them from oiir towns — storm them in their
strongholds, and never pause till we force them from our shores.
Tlie successes of the last campaign teach us what we are able
to do if we exert our strength ; and instead of provoking oiir
indolence, should spur our ambition. These rising States should
catch the spirit of the gallant Csesar, and think " that they have
done nothing, while any thing remains to do." '

JMaecii 16. — Ix piirsuance of orders from his excellency,
the Commander-in-chief, a general court-martial was held at
Lancaster, in Pennsylvania, when Henry Mansin j^^m^yi s ies
(who confessed himself an officer in the British Executed.
army) and Wendal Myer, an inhabitant of the county, were

' Extract of a letter from a gentleman at tlie camp at Yalley Forge, in tlie New
Jersey Gazette, March 18.

30 DIAET OF TUE REVOLUTION. [1778.

brouglit before the court and charged with being spies, carry-
ing on a traitorous corresj^ondence, and supplying the enemy
•with horses, &c. The court, after a fair and candid trial,
which lasted some days, and every opportunity given to them
to make their defence, found them guilty, and unanimously
sentenced them to suffer death ; in consequence of which, they
were to-day executed near Lancaster, amidst a very numerous
concourse of spectators. Tlie unliappy wretches, before their
execution, acknowledged the justice of their sentence, and died
fully convinced of the heinousness of their offence. They
have discovered several persons who have aided and assisted
them, but unfortunately made their escape x:pon the capture
of these culprits. However, it is hoped that justice will over-
take them, and inflict the punishment due to such parricides.'

Though Mr. Burgoyne is much praised for his dramatic

abilities, a correspondent in London observes : Major-General

Gates has the advantage of him even in that

General Burgoyne. i. ^i i- vi x •

respect, as the lormcr was never able to rise
above ^ farce; whilst the latter has executed a very affect iiuj
tragechj.

Last winter, Mr. Wilkes ^ was at Batli, and meeting Bur-
goyne in one of the rooms, he asked if he proposed to go next
summer to Albany througli the lakes. " Certainly," replied
the other. " Why, then," said Wilkes, " you will as certainly
be taken prisoner by Arnold ; therefore, pray accept a letter
from me to Hancock." " Sir," said Burgoyne, " no man's recom-
mendation would be more acceptable to me on all occasions;
but I am well assured that I shall have no use for your friend-
ship at this time." '

March 21. — After a most ridiculous gasconade upon the
late movement of a detachment from the British troops into
Maiiam Piiipioy's ^^^ Jcrscy, tlic publisher of the last week's Tren-
Prophccy. ^^^^ papcr " iiitroduccs a most comfortable proph-
ecy of a good lady who lately di('(l at Wilmington. It is no

' New Jersey Gazette, March 25. • John Wilkes, tlio Patriot.

^ New Jersey Gazette, May 27. * Same, March 11.

1778.] MADAM Shipley's prophecy. 31

new device among these deceivers of the people, to call in the
aids of popular superstition in support of their ambitious pro-
jects. And though we think it rather a profanation to amuse
the people with such idle tales under the name of prophecy,
we hope our readers will excuse our inserting this of the good
Madam Shipley, not doubting but it will have all the weight
which it merits with those for whose encouragement it was
published in 'New Jersey :

" Trenton, March 11.
" The public has been already infoi-med of the death of Eliz-
abeth Shipley, of Wilmington ; but a circumstance relating
thereto is (perhaps) a secret, except to a few. On her death-
bed, as well as during her better state of health, she was nnich
affected with the calamity that this country now labors under
from the cruel oppression of the King and Parliament of Eng-
land ; but a ray of that light by which the soul can look into
future events springing up in her, she was comforted, and
with godly confidence declared. That this country should not
he conquered hj Great Britain. Tliis she uttered with such
solemnity that it commanded the particular notice of all who
heard her, and is now made public for the encouragement of
every well-wisher to the freedom and liberties of America.
Every one who had an opportunity of knowing this great and
good woman, whether they be Whig or Tory, will be inclined
to give credit to her prophecy ; and for the sake of all such
who knew her not, they are now informed that she was a wo-
man eminently endowed with knowledge, both natural and
divine." '

March 25. — It is whispered that Congress, finding at length
the baseness and depravity of their Amei-ican subjects, and the
folly of France in deserting them, are determined con-ress"
to retire beyond the Mississippi with a chosen in'^tions.
band of fatriots., to be drafted chiefly from New England and
the minority of St. Stephen's cliapel. There, breathing from
the fatigues of this glorious, though unsuccessful struggle.

32 DIABT OF THE EEVOLUTION. [1778.

they will liave leisure to put in practice those excellent refine-
ments in government and morals of which they have already
given such specimens ! And being possessed of the viisclom
both of the new and old world, they will exhibit to mankind
such a perfect model of society as shall astonish and confound
them. Tliey will so mould their new commonwealth that it
shall not have the least trace of any that now does or ever has
existed ; especially that of Great Britain, whose constitution
they wisely consider as the most ridiculous jumble and com-
pound of folly ever produced by the ignorance of man.

Theirs will be nearly patriarchal, resembling one great
family; and as it is an assemblage of worthies whose lives
have been devoted to the good of mankind, who have subdued
all vicious appetites and inclinations, their laws will be rather
persuasive than directory. Property, that source of all crimes,
M'ill either be abolished, or confined to the mere right of occu-
pancy. 'No one will be allowed to possess more ground than
he can till, which, when he i-elinquishes, returns to the public
stock, and is open to the next occupant. The rights of con-
science, of private judgment, and freedom of speecJi, will be
secured as heretofore. But above all, they will be solicitous to
preserve public faith, for which purpose treaties, compacts,
conventions, &c., will be made religious ceremonies. The
strictest threatenings will be denounced against every species
oi falsehood and misrepresentation ; and then comes their pe-
culiar characteristic, Momanity, to crown the whole.

There can be no doubt but Providence will take this people
under its immediate protection, and therefore all fear of for.
eign invasion vanishes. Forbear, then ! ye sovereigns of the
earth, to disturb this abode of philosophy and virtue. And
'ye people of America, whose lot it must be to return to that
state of slavery you have been brought Tip in, may you be
pimished for your supineness by a total unconscioiisness of
your wretched situation."

Apeil 1. — Amongst those who left Philadelphia on the ap-

' Pennsylvania Lcdirer, March 25.

1778.] THE MDJTJTE INTELLIGENCEE. 33

proacli of the enemy to that city, a gentleman who had with
him a portable printing press, took refuge somewhere near
Egg Harbor. By means of a well-conducted corre- ^j,^ j^j^^j^
spondence with a friend in the city, he obtained inteiugencer.
constant and authentic intelligence of the most minute occur-
rences there. Thus provided, he, for the amusement of him-
self and a few friends, publishes a paper every fortnight,
which he calls Pasquin, or the Minute Intelligencer. As these
papers are not for sale, and but a few copies struck off, they
do not circulate, and are but little known. Being an old ac-
quaintance, he constantly sends me some of his performances.
As a specimen of the work, I have selected the following
articles :

" It is said that the English ministry, having no hopes of
subduing America by force of arms, whilst the inhabitants
retain their native virtue, have instructed the officers in their
army to try a more certain method of success, by debauching
the morals of the men, and seducing the virtue of the women.
For this purpose play houses are opened, gaming tables estab-
lished, and balls promoted in a city languishing iinder a scar-
city of the necessaries of life.

" His Excellency General Howe, ever attentive to the health
of his army, took the advantage of some fair weather in De-
cember last, and determined to give his troops an airing, of
which they stood in great need. For this purpose he ordered
the whole of his forces out, and heading them himself, took a
walk into the country. His benevolent intention was to pro-
ceed as far as Lancaster, but finding the roads about Edge
Hill much infested with armed rebels, he thought to return to
the city, which he did with considerable precipitation, being-
apprehensive of an approaching storm. Some think he might
have forced his way through the banditti, but he was too prii-
dent a general to expend his Majesty's powder and shot on
such a ragged crew.

" We have the pleasure of assuring the public that the dis-
putes respecting the arrangement of the Royal African licg-
iment are now at an end, his excellency having determined
that arrangement in the following manner :
ToL. II.— 3

34 DIAEY OF THE KEVOLUTION. [17Y8.

" Quacko — Colonel ; Sambo — Lieutenant-Colonel ; Cuffj
— Major; Toney and Cudjoe — Captains.

" The contest for pre-eminence between Qnacko and Sambo,
was long and obstinate ; it is evident that Sambo has the thick-
est lips, and the whitest teeth, but his excellency is partially in
favor of Quacko, as he has honored him with the command ;
and at the entertainment lately given by the officers of the
Royal African Regiment, his excellency opened the ball with
Colonel Quacko's lady, and danced very gracefully to the
music of a full orchestra of banjoes and hurdy-gurdies. How
far the superior beauty of Colonel Quacko's lady may have
contributed to his promotion, is uncertain.

" We hear that general orders have been issued for having
the Royal African Regiment shorn every three months, in order
to supply the ladies of the court of Great Britain -with wool
sufficient for the present fashionable head-dress." '

" ADVEETISEJIENT.

"Now in the press and shortly will be published, neatly
bound in calf, the miscellaneous works of his Excellency Gen-
eral Howe, in prose and verse, containing, amongst many other
curious particulars, the following articles :

" 1st. The history of the American war ; or the art of insur-
ing infamy in this world and misery in the next. 2d. A dis-
sertation on the cardinal virtues, in which it is proved that
justice and mercy ought to be excluded from holding any rank
amongst them. 3d. The game of picquet in a new way, by
which is shown how a person may win ten thousand gold
guineas at a game, and yet the loser remain perfectly satisfied.
By this method, cards become not only an anmsement, but
very useful in the settlement of accounts. N. B. — ^In this
learned work his excellency acknowledges that he has been
assisted by Mr. Ware, the commissary-general. 4th. The value
of British gold ; or the art of paying off large accounts with

' A carpenter the other day, ivalking behind a little woman, dressed in the
latest European method, took occasion gently to measure her head-dress, when it
was found to be just one-half of her height. — Carver.

1778.] THE MINUTE INTELLIGENCEK. 35

small sums ; illustrated by a variety of real cases, particularly
one, in whicli a just bill of £550 was discharged by fifty guin-
eas, and a receipt in full obtained. 5th. Men immortalized,
and death defeated ; or, the returns of the British army ;
wherein is shown how the pay and rations of a thousand sol-
diers may be drawn, who have long since died of putrid fevers,
or been slain in battle. 6th. The contented cudcold ; an heroic
poem. 7th. Songs and amorous odes in the eastern style ; a
hymn to Venus ; Chloe, or the African beauty ; an invitation
to Bacchus, in the German taste ; the progress of cruelty, in
six cantos, &c.

" The work will be comprised in three vols., octavo ; a fourth
volume will contain congratulatory addresses to his excellency,
from the several provinces wherein he haS restored constitii-
tional liberty. But these addresses have not yet come to
hand.

" Now publishing in sheets, and to be sold at Philadelphia,
The Political Liar, or the new Fairy Tales, wherein is related
liow a shameful defeat may with ease be converted into a glo-
rious victory — how large reinforcements may be obtained by
magic arts — how France is abandoning America by sending
lier large supplies of warlike stores and other necessaries — ^how
General "Washington lost his senses, and left a portemanteau
containing all his original letters and secrets of State with a
sick negro, whereby they fell into the hands of the British
officers, and are now publishing at large in the Political Liar,'
with many other entertaining articles of the same kind.

" A great price in hard money will be given for a little
heari's ease. Apply to the superintendent-general."

" From the late London Papers.
" To be sold by public auction, on the 1st April, 1778, at the
Eoyal Exchange, Hanovei- with all the private estate of George
"Whelps. The vast sums arising from this sale are by his Maj-
esty's most gracious promise, to be distribiited amongst the
Tories in America, who have suffered so miich on his account." °

' Rivington's Gazette. ^ Now Jersey Gazette, April 15.

86 DIAET OF THE KEVOLUTION. [1778.

Apeil 15. — Throughout the whole past ■winter, with Gen-
eral "Washington within twenty miles of them, the British have
General Howe at remained in Philadelphia qnite unalarmed and
piiiiadeiphia. ^^^^^ ^^^ ^ gj^g^g j^(.(.^g]^ |jj^g i^ggj^ attempted ;

and wliat is as extraordinary, not a single fire has happened,
or even a common riot to disturb the peace. It is amazing to
think that a garrison so confined in its lines, composed of
troops of difi'erent nations and languages, together with a
motley crew of inhabitants, besides the sailors of the navy,
and transports, in all amounting to upwards of fifty thousand
people, should have lived together in the most perfect har-
mony and peace. Nothing reflects more honor on the charac-
ter of General Howe than this very circumstance, as notliing
but the highest attention to good discipline, regularity, and
order, could have efi'ected what seems so very incredible. Tlie
early support he gave to the police he had established for the
government of the city, the public countenance he gave to it
on all occasions — never suffering its authority in any one in-
stance to be violated or insulted — and the satisfaction given to
the inhabitants by the measure itself, have had the liigliest
good e0"ects, and justly endear him to both ai-my and coimtry.
Perhaps there never was a general commanding an amiy more
universally beloved by officers and soldiers, than Sir William ;
nor in whom, as an officer, a more general confidence has pre-
vailed, both for abilities and spirit.'

April 22. — An elaborate production in the Lancaster pa-
pers of to-day, signed Uenricus^ concludes thus: — "Believe
me; the present time with the enemy is a time of
fearful expectation and desperate trial. Their all
depends upon being abie to procrastinate the approaches of
General "Washington ; in distracting the minds of tlie people ; in
producing confusion in otir military councils and operations,
and concealing their inability to act offensively under a most
pompous parade of pushing on the war. "\Yherefore, while our
bleeding country beckons us to shut up the temple of Janus,

^ Fpcott, V. 133.

f

1778.] HENKICUS. 37

and annihilate the power of Great Britain in America by
one exertion of our combined strength — who dare be idle?
"Where is the man who lays claim to the enjoyment of freedom
that will not exert himself in assisting our great general to
complete what he so disinterestedly engaged in — what he pre-
served after the loss of a capital part of his army, and a most
disheartening retreat on the memorable banks of the Delaware,
with a handful of brave followers. Is there an American who
can fight but this moment wishes to share with our conmiander
the glory of completing the independence and happiness of the
continent ? I dare say, nay, I am confident of it, that there
will not be found one out of the field when it is known their
services are required, but such as cowardice or tlie lurking
principles of Toryism detains. Such men we want not.

" 'Tis said that Hannibal swore to his father never to be at
peace with the Romans. I call upon all those 'who are in
league with virtue and independence, to swear with me, and
to each other, by the honor of their ancestors — by the faith
they have pledged to the States — ^by their abhorrence of chains
and slavery — by sacred liberty and religion — -by their wives
and children — ^by the ardent principles of revenge kindled up
in virtuous bosoms — by the dear spirits of those who have
fallen in battle — ^by the ghosts of their starved and murdered
brethren, never to make peace with Britons till they have
humbled them with the dust, and taken consummate ven-
geance for all their outrages, rapines, ravages, and murders,
by the final establishment of a Glorious Independence.''''

[By such pitiful productions have the unthinking multitude
been diverted out of their liberty and property — oaths on the
holy evangelists having been found, by experience, of no value
amongst rebels. "We cannot, tlierefore, be surprised to find
them in search of objects more suitable to their purpose than
the sacred records. The notion .of departed spirits, ghosts,
&c., may serve to frighten the ignorant to the field, where they
will, like many of their predecessors, procure independency for
theu- sinful souls.] '

' Rivington's Gazette, May 9.

6S DIAET OF THE EEVOLUTIOX. [i H ^.

April 23. — ^The enemy, says a correspondent, after tlie
flogging of Burgoyne, have resumed their old trick of sham
The conciliatory treaty. General Tryon (by Avhat authority he best
Bills. knows) has introduced into New Jersey a ridicu-
lous publication under the title of " Draught of a bill for de-
claring the intentions of the Parliament of Great Britain con-
cei-ning the exercise of the right of imposing taxes within his
Majesty's colonies, provinces, and plantations in North Amer-
ica," which just amounts to the old nauseous dish (which no
honest American could ever SAvallow) with a little amendation
in the cookery and sauces, together with the " Draught of a bill
to enable his Majesty to appoint Commissioners with sufficient
powers to treat, consult, and agree upon the means of cpiieting
the disorders now subsisting in certain of the colonies, prov-
inces, and plantations in Nortli America." What renders this
nonsensical manoeuvre still more ominous is, that General
Tryon (and by the name of governor, too) certifies them to be
true copies." Siirely the ministry might have found a more
proper person for tlmt purpose than the most obnoxious of all
obnoxious animals by his professed declarations in the pleasiire
he takes in burning, kidnapping, and every species of desola-
tion. And ofi'ering pardon too — consummate impudence!
Who wants and will stoop to accept of a pai'don for defending
his country agamst the most villanous tyranny that was ever
devised by the art of man ? Divide and rule. But America
has too much sense to be so gulled."

These bills were published in all the loyal newspapers of the time. In Kiv-
ington's Gazette they were published with the subjoined introduction: — "The fol-
lowing draughts of two bills, presented and read in the House of Commons, on
the 19th of February last, are produced to the public through the channel of this
paper. They deserve the most serious attention of our unhappy fellow-sub-
jects now in rebeUion against the parent State, which hath from the first period
of their existence, nursed and protected them with the tenderest and fondest
care ; overlooking the petulant humors which sometimes showed themselves, and
which, from the first origin of the present troubles, hath endeavored by every
prudent, mild, and reasonable method, to prevent those scenes of desolation
and bloodshed which now distress the country, and threaten it with complete
and horrid ruin. Here again dbes the lenity and mercy of Great Britain hold out
peace, safety, and happiness upon a broad and firm basis to the deluded inhabit-
ants of tlic colonies." '' New Jersey Gazette, April 23.

177S.] TEEATT WITH FEANCE. 39--

At lengtli we have intelligence from France tliat the Con-
gress have concluded a treaty of alliance with the King of the
French: — ^His Most Christian Majesty gnaran- Trentvwith
tees the independence, sovereignty, liberties, and I'l-^nce.
all the possessions of the United States of America ; and they,
on their part, guarantee all the dominions of that prince in the
West Indies. The pai-t he has acted upon this occasion is
truly noble and magnanimous. No monopoly of our trade is
desired ; it is left open to all we choose to trade with. Tliis is
wise as it is generous, it being undoubtedly the interest of
France that this treaty shoiild be durable, which would not
have been so likely had hard terms been exacted of us. We
are, moreover, liberally assisted there with all kinds of siipplies.
The treaties were signed on the sixth of February, but were not
piiblicly known when the frigate which brought them to Con-
gress, sailed ; but they were talked of as highly probable, from
circiimstances : and the English minister to defeat, if possible,
this expected union, and recover the dependence of the colo-
nies, has brought in two bills, which he calls conciliatory, but
which are a composition of artifice and uncertainty. Tire right,
as they are pleased to call it, of laying taxes on us is not given
up ; the Parliament only declared, that in consideration of some
inconveniences found in the exercise of this right, they intend
not to exercise it hereafter, except for regulating trade ; but the
next Parliament may find this declaration inconvenient, and
may repeal it, and may resume the right. Commissioners are
appointed to treat with any body of men in America, on the
means of quieting the disorders there, but can do nothing defi-
nite, except granting pardons, declaring and revoking cessa-
tion of arms, &c. On this, a gentleman of character says, in
one of his letters, " I hope no American wiU be mean enough
to accept their pardons ; and I am sure they will not be so
weak as to disband or disarm, in the smallest degree, on the
faith of their declaring a cessation of arms." He adds, " Be-
lieve me, the malice of the British court is as great against us
as ever, but they are at present in a great consternation, unable
to go on, and dread to give up, and fearing a war with France
and Spain, which they see must ruin them. If they can divide

40 DIAEY OF THE EETOLmON. [1778.

and weakeii us, or deceive us into a submission, they will pun-
ish us at their leisure." France has this same year renewed
her fifty years' alliance with the thirteen United States of
Switzerland, which she has faithfully kept for two hundred
years. A good omen for us. The accession of Spain to the
treaties was not doubted. Those events are most important in
favor of America ; they give us a stability that must support
and extend our credit in Europe, while that of Britain is daily
sinking. Tlie good will to our cause in Europe is universal ;
all nations wish, and are ready to concur, in the humiliation
of England, as soon as they dare. By returning to their gov-
ernment, we should have them and all Europe against us ; we
are now, with all Europe, against them. Tliere is no hesitating
a moment which to choose of these two situations. Tlie public
may rely on the authenticity of the above accounts, which, if
improved with wisdom and spirit here, must, by the favor of
Heaven, prove decisive for America.'

' New York Journal, May 18.

CHAPTEE II.

Mat 1. — ^This morning, at dayliglit, the American camp,
which lay near the Crooked Billet,' was surroiinded with a
body of the enemy, who appeared on all quarters, j..^^^ ^^ ^^^
The scouts neglected last night to patrol the roads ^^""^"'^ ''"''''•
as they were ordered, but lay in camp till near day, though
their orders were to leave it by two o'clock in the morning.
On the disobedience of some officers of the scouts we have to
lay our misfortunes.

The alarm was so sudden, we had scarcely time to mount
our horses before the enemy was within musket shot of our
quarters. "U^e observed a party in our rear had got into houses
and behind fences ; their numbers appearing nearly equal to
ours, we did not think it advisable to attack them in that situa-
tion, especially as another body appeared in our front to the
east of the Billet ; and not knowing what nximbers we had to
contend Avitli, we thought it best to open our way under cover
of a wood to the left of our camp, towards Colonel Hart's, for
which our little party moved in columns, the baggage follow-
ing in the rear. "We had not passed far before our flanking
parties began to change shot with the enemy, but kept moving
on till we made the wood, when a party of both foot and liorse
came up the Biberry road, and attacked our right flank ; the
party from the Billet fell upon our rear ; the horse, from the
rear of our camp, came upon our left flank. A body of liorse
appearing in our front, we made a stand in the wood, and gave
them some Avarm fires, Avhich forced them to retire ; their

' Xear Ncshaminy Bridge.

42 DIAKV OF THE EEVOLUTION. [1778.

horse suffered considerably as tliej charged us, and were
severely repulsed ; their strength gathering from all quarters,
Ave thought it best to move on, Avhich vre did with the loss of
our baggage, the horse giving way in the front as we advanced.
We continued skirmishing for upwards of two miles, when
we made a turn to the left, Avhich entirely extricated us from
them. We came into the York road near the cross roads, and
moved slowly down toward the Billet, in hopes to take some
advantage of them on that quarter, where they must least ex-
pect us, but we found they retired toward the city. Our peo-
ple behaved well ; our loss is upwards of thirty killed and
wounded ; some were butchered in a manner the most brutal
savages could not equal ; even while living some were throAvn
into buckwheat straw, and the straw set on fire ; the clothes
were burnt on others, and scarcely one without a dozen woimds
Avith bayonets and cutlasses. Fifty-eight are missing. Tlie
enemy's loss is not known, but it is currently reported one field
officer is among the slain ; we took three of their horse, five
Tvere left dead on the field, the riders either killed or wounded."

May 2. — Among the slain, near the Crooked Billet, yester-
day, fell the gallant Captain John Downey, late schoolmaster
in Philadelphia, whose Avorth entitles him to a
place in the annals of America. He took an ac-
tiA'c and early part in our struggles for liberty. He Avent as a
volunteer to Jersey last Avinter Avas a year, Avhere he behaved
gallantly in the battle of Trenton and Princeton. He being
chosen captain of a company of Philadelphia militia, served
his tour of duty two months last summer at Billingsjiort, when
on account of his STiperior knoAvledge in mathematics, the ex-
ecutive council employed him to make a military survey of the
river DelaAvare, which he performed with great exactness;
since Avhich time he has performed many A'ery iinportant ser-
A'ices to his country, a loA^e to Avhich prompted him to attempt
any thing which promised its Avclfiire. He lately acted as an
assistant-commissary, and in this capacity Avas Avitli our brave

1778.] TUE FEEUCH ALLI.VNCE. 43

militia iu the attack yesterday. From his known readiness to
fight and bleed for his country, it is more than probable that
when the attack began he attempted to join his countrymen,
when he was shot through the shoulder, and that he lay in his
blood till the enemy returned, when they despatched him in a
cruel manner ; for his body was foimd with one of his hands
almost cut off, his head slashed in several places, his skull cut
through, his brains coming out at his nose and scattered all
around. He was an enlightened patriot, an affectionate friend,
a gallant soldier, a fond husband, and an indulgent parent.
He had no inheritance to leave, as his little property was left
in PhiladeljAia ; but he has left a sorrowful widow and five
helpless children in very indigent circumstances. They are
worthy of the notice of the charitable.'

Tnis day, Mr. Simeon Deane arrived at Congress express
from the American plenipotentiaries ^ at the court of France,
and delivered his despatches to the president. The Aiiifmce with
The imj^ortant contents are, by a correspondent, France,
thus communicated :

" Tlie news of the defeat and captivity of General Bur-
goyne was received in France the beginning of December,
with as much joy as if a victory by their own troops had been
announced. Our plenipotentiaries took this opportunity again
to attract the attention of the court of France to the object of

' New York Journal, June 1.

'' When Dr. Franklin and Silas Deane were introduced to the French King in
the quality of ambassadors from North America, they went in elegant coaches,
attended by domestics in superb French hveries, with a suite. On their entrance
into the court-yard, martial music struck up, the soldiers were under arms, aud the
French flag was lowered as a solemn salute, which all the ofiRcers accompanied.
In the inner part of the palace they were received by les cent Suisses, the major
of which announced '^ Zen ambassatkttrs dcs treize provinces 'unics,^" i. e., The
ambassadors from the "Thirteen United Provinces." "When they were ushered
into the royal presence, the college of Paris, the bishops, the nobility, ministers,
foreign and domestic, and ladies arose and saluted them. Old Franklin was ob-
served to weep, but the Count de A^ergennes relieved the confusion of the philos-
opher, by waiving certain forms, and immediately presenting him to the King,
who, i\ rAiir/laise, took the ambassador by the hand, and viewing his credentials,
entered directly into conversation. — Xcw Yovl- Journal, July 6.

44 DIAET OF THE REVOLUTION. [1778.

their negotiation. On the 16th, Monsieur Gerard, royal syndic
of Strasburgh, and secretary of his Majesty's Council of State,
waited on our plenipotentiaries, and informed them, by order
of the King, ' That after long and full consideration of our
affairs and propositions in council, it was decided, and his
Majesty was determined to acknowledge our independence,
and make a treaty with us of amity and commerce ; that in
the treaty no advantage would be taken of our present situa-
tion to obtain terms from us which otherwise would not be con-
venient for us to agi'ee to, his Majesty desiring that the treaty,
once made, should be durable, and our amity subsist forever,
which could not be expected, if each nation did not find its
interest in the continuance as well as in the commencement of
it. It was therefore his intention that the terms of the treaty
should be such as we might be willing to agree to if our state
had been long established, and in the fulness of strength and
power, and such as we should approve of when that time
should come; that his Majesty was fixed in his determination
not only to acknowledge, but to support our independence by
every means in his power ; that in doing this he might probably
be soon engaged in war, with all the expenses, risk, and damage
usually attending it ; yet he should not expect any compensation
from us on that account, nor pretend that he acted wholly for
our sakes, since, besides his real good-will to us and our cause,
it was manifestly the interest of France that the power of
England should be diminished by our separation from it. He
should, moreover, not so much as insist, that, if he engaged in
a war with England on our account, we should not make a
separate peace for ourselves, whenever good and advantageous
terms were offered to us. The only condition he woiild require
and rely on would be this : Tltat we, in no peace to he made
loith England, should give tip our independence and return to
the obedience of that government!'

" That upon such principles, by virtue of full powers by the
King of France, to Monsieur Gerard, royal syndic of the city
of Strasburgh, and secretary of his Majesty's Council of State,
dated the 30th of January, 1778, this minister, with oi;r pleni-
potentiaries, signed at Paris on the Cth of February, a treaty

1778.] THE FKEUCH ALLIANCE. 45

of alliance and commerce between the crown of France and the
United States of America, almost in the very terms in which the
American plenipotentiaries had been instructed by Congress.
In the treaty of alliance the following articles are conspicuous :

" Article I. If war should break out between France and
Great Britain, during the continuance of the present war be-
tween the United States and England, his Majesty and the
United States shall make it a common cause, and aid each
other mutually with their good offices, their councils, and their
forces, according to the exigence of conjunctures, as becomes
good and faithful allies.

" Article II. Tlie essential and direct end of the present de-
fensive alliance is, to maintain effectually the liberty, sovereign-
ty, and independence, absolute and unlimited, of the said United
States, as well in matters of government as of commerce.

" Article YI. The most Christian King renounces forever
the possession of the island of Bermuda, as well as of any part
of the continent of North America, which before the treaty of
Paris, in 17G3, or in virtue of that treaty, were acknowledged
to belong to the crown of Great Britain, or to the United States,
heretofore called British Colonies, or M-hicli are at this time, or
have lately been, under the power of the King and crown of
Great Britain." '

' Pennsylvania Gazette, Postscript, May 2. "This,'' 503-3 Rivington, in his
Gazette of May 20tli, " may be looked upon as the masterpiece, or licystone of the
arch that supports that system of lies with which the good people of America
have been gulled and deceived ; but the foundation is rotten, and the whole fabric
must soon fall to the ground. FranUlin Unew this, and makes use of the last
effort to support his own consequence. But the deception is too gross, too pal-
pable almost for the congress itself. They have only ventured to publish in an
indirect manner, three of the most conspicuous articles, by which, supposing them
to be really genuine, France engages to do nothing. She renounces the possession
of a country to which she docs not pretend to have the least claim. She will
also be very glad to see the independency of America established, and enjoy a
share of its trade, provided it can be done without hurting the little finger of one
of her own subjects. And if ever she should be engaged in a war with England,
she will then join her rcbeUious subjects, and give them all the aid in her power.
0 wonderful ! But there is wanted no ghost, nor a Simeon Deane to tell us this !
The truth is, the leaders of rebellion are alarmed for their own safety ; they see
peace and happiness held out to the people in the clearest and most unreserved
terms ; but for themselves there is no retreat, only what must ultimately end in
infamy and disgrace."

46 DIAEY OF THE EEVOLUTION. [1778.

Tlie treaty of commerce stands upon the broad basis of
equality ; and considering the established great po'sver of France,
and the infancy of the United States, is an act without parallel.
In a word, the sentiments delivered on the 16th of December
by Monsieur Gerard, by order of the King of France, are sen-
timents rarely entertained by princes, and which, together with
these equal treaties, must rank him, not only among the great-
est monarchs of France, but in history.

These important advices were brought in the Le Sensible,
M. Marignie commander, a royal frigate of France, of twenty-
eight twelve-pounders, and three hundred men. She left Brest
on the eighth of March, and, after a passage of thirty-five
days, arrived at Casco Bay, from whence she sailed on her
return, after two days' stay to take in water.

Of this extraordinary publication, says the editor of the
Pennsylvania Ledger, we doubt not but oiir readers will think

Tory Eemarks on ^^ '"'® ^'^ ^^^^^ ^^ ^^''^"^'*^ g°0"^^ rCaSOU tO SUSpCCt it

the Alliance, ^g^ what many former publications from the same
quarter certainly have been, a seasonaMe piece of tnisrepreseii-
tation. Tliere is an art, well known by these adepts, of mix-
ing truth and falsehood, or of conveying falsehood in the vehi-
cle of truth.

The hasty resolution of Congress to reject all possible oft'ers
of accommodation with Great Britain, was found to alarm the
people, who must be supposed to prefer a re-imion with the
mother country, on the generous terms proposed, before any
romantic and hazardous scheme of ambition whatever. It
was, therefore, necessary to pacify the popular alarm, and en-
deavor to reconcile vis to the idea of a ruinous connection with
France, by representing the terms of that connection in a flat-
tering light. However, supposing this to be a true and faith-
ful account, it certainly ought the more to alai-m every true
friend to the future peace ai^d prosperity of America. Surely
we have reason to distrust the restless and enterprising S2:)irit
of France, and of those other commercial powers who are said
to favor the project of American independency ! And, if the
French King has agreed to such a treaty as this, of which,
however, a samjjlc only is given us, we must be madly cred-

177S.] TUE FRENCH ALLIAKCE. 47

\ilous indeed if we believe it proceeds from any otlier motives
than, at all events, to prevent our enjoying now the benefits of
a happy reconciliation, and with a view, when the times will
bear it, to bring us into such a state of domestic expense and
foreign dependence, as must make us forever repent our folly
in not having embraced the opportunity, now presented, of
securing our civil and religious freedom, peace, and safety,
against the arts or violence of all the world, by a cordial re-
union with our mother country !

Is it possible that we can now wish for a final separation
from Britain, the ancient and chief support of the Protestant re-
ligion in the world, for the sake of upholding a little longer,
at the expense of our lives and fortmies, the arbitrary power
of that Congress, ■who mthoi;t even asking our consent, have
disposed of us, have mortgaged us like vassals and slaves, by
refusing to treat with Britain, and by entering into a treaty
with that ambitious and treacherous power, whose religious
and political maxims have so often disturbed the peace and in-
vaded the rights of mankind ? Tlie Congress have wonderfully
altered their tone of late. The time was when the bare tolera-
tion of the Homan Catholic religion in Canada, though stipu-
lated for by articles of capitulation, was treated as a wicked
attempt to establish " a sanguinary faith, which had for ages
filled the world with blood and slaughter ! " But now the
Congress are willing to make lis the instruments of Aveakening
the best friends, and of strengthening the most powerful and
ambitious enemies of the Eeformation to such a degree as must
do more than all the world besides could do, towards the
universal re-establishment of Popery through all Christen-
dom. It will be said that the French are no longer such a
bigoted people as they were in the day of the St. Bartholomew
massacre, and that we need not fear imbibing any improper
sentiments from her maxims of religion or government. Tliat
France is not so blindly bigoted to her religious faith as former-
ly, we readily gi-ant — indeed, her religion is little more at this
day than an outside show to cover a general infidelity ; but
there is, for this very reason, the more cause to fear and dis-
trust her views, as the less real religion she has at heart, the

48 DIAEY OF THE REVOLUTION. [1778.

moi'e "will slie be disposed to encourage the political tenets of
the Clnircli of Eome, on account of the advantages they afford
to her ambition, in the pious work of enslaving mankind. As
to Spain, the confederated ally of France, Ave know how zeal-
ously she continues to support the horrid authority of an in-
quisition for the same reasons. Judge, then, what we have to
hope or expect from such an alliance ! We not only run a
manifest risk of becoming slaves ourselves, under the treach-
erous title of independency, but we are doing every thing in
our power to overturn the Protestant religion, and extinguish
every spark, both of civil and religious freedom, in the world !
These sentiments, no doubt, will be ridiculed by those who are
interested in supporting the measures of Congress ; but they
surely demand the serious attention of every disinterested
friend of this country, and of every man who wishes well to
the rights of humanity and conscience in every part of the
world.'

Hay 5. — Tnis afternoon, the Commander-in-chief issued,
from head-quarters at Valley Forge, the following after or-
The Alliance witii ^^^^ '• ^^ having pleased the Almighty Euler of

Trance. ^|jg Univcrse, propitiously to defend the cause of
the United American States, and finally, by raising up a pow-
erful friend among the Princes of the Earth, to establish our
Liberty and Independence upon lasting foundations — it be-
comes us to set apart a day for gratefully acknowledging the
divine goodness and celebrating the important event which we
owe to his benign interposition.

Tlie several brigades are to be assembled for this purpose,
at nine o'clock to-morrow morning, when their chaplains will
communicate the intelligence in the postscrijDt to the Pennsyl-
vania Gazette of the second instant, and offer up a thanksgiv-
ing, and deliver a discourse suitable to the occasion.

At half after ten o'clock a cannon will be fired, which is to
be a signal for the men to be under arms.

The brigade inspectors will then inspect their dress and

' Pennsylvania Ledger, May 13.

1778.] THE ALLIANCE CELEBRATED. id

amis, form the battalions according to instructions given them,
and announce to the commanduig officers of brigades that the
battalions are formed.

Tlie brigadiers will then appoint the field officers to com-
mand the battalions, after -which each battalion will be ordered
to load and ground their arms. At half-past eleven another
cannon will be fired as a signal for the march, upon which the
several brigades will begin their march by wheeling to the
right by platoons, and proceed by the nearest way to the left
of their ground, in the new position that will be pointed out by
the brigade inspectors. A third signal will be given, upon
wliich there will be a discharge of thirteen cannon ; when the
thirteenth has fired, a running fire of the infantry will begin
on the right of Woodford's, and continue throughout the whole
front line ; it will be then taken up on the left of the second
line, and continue to the right. Upon a signal given the whole
army will Huzza, ! long live the King of France !

Tlie artillery then begins again, and fires thirteen rounds.
This will be succeeded by second general discharge of mus-
ketry in a running fire — Huzza ! long live the friendly Euro-
pean powers ! Then the last discharge of thirteen pieces of
artillery will be given, followed by a general running fire —
Huzza for the American States ! '

May 6. — Agreeably to the special orders issued yesterday
at head-quarters, the alliance has been splendidly celebrated.
A wi-iter gives the following mimite account of the festivities,
in a familiar letter to a friend :

" How often have you told me that a man of my contem-
plative turn, so fond of the shades of retirement and the endear-
ments of domestic life, could find but little fell- TheAuunce
city amidst the uncontrollable vicissitudes of war. celebrated.
You did not recollect that there is in nature a principle much
stronger than the passion for ease, and more powerful than the
incitements to pleasure, which operates like the strength of a
Samson in drawing us from our retirements, and breaking

' New Jersey Gazette, May 13.

50 DIABT OF THE EETOLUTION. [1T78.

asunder the silken cords of oiir Helens or Delilalis. I laave
long since discovered that pleasures of the most agreeable kind
may be found even in the bustle of a camp. AVhat do you
think, my dear friend, does the soldier feel, in reviewing the
dangers he has passed — in planning or executing the overthrow
of tyranny — or celebrating the exploits of heroes ? And what
spectacle can you imagine more splendid, than an army of free-
men drawn up, within hearing of their enemy, to celebrate the
ackowledgment of our independence, and alliance with the
first monarch in the world ; and whom can you conceive more
happy than those who have borne no inconsiderable part in
the struggles and adversities that served to produce an event
so favorable to the interests of mankind ? I wished for you
more than once, during our feu de joie, to have shared with
me in the festivity of the day. It Avoiild have given you new
ideas of military pleasures, and helped the poem on oiir inde-
pendence, which you have promised, to some elegant strokes
of the epic. Heretofore we have celebrated the day in which
a prince was vested with the poAver to kill and enslave us ; but
this was the day of rejoicing at the interment of tyranny, and
the coronation of American Independence.

" After the chaplains had finished their discourses, and the
second cannon was fired, the troops began their march to the
lines in the following order : — Each major-general conducted
the first brigade of his command to the ground ; the other bri-
gades were conducted by their commanding officers in separate
columns. Major-General Lord Stirling commanded on the
right, the Marquis De La Fayette on the left, and the Baron
De Kalb the second line. But this ai*rangement can convey
no adequate idea of their movements to their several posts — of
the appearance of his excellency during his circuit roimd the
lines — of the air of our soldiers — the cleanliness of their dress
— the lirilliancy and good order of their arms, and the remark-
able animation with which they performed the necessary salute
as the general passed along. Indeed, during the whole of the
review, the utmost military decorum was preserved, while at
the same time one might observe the hearts of the soldiery
struggling to express their feelings in a way more agreeable to
nature.

1778.] TirE ALLIANCE CELEEKATED. 51

'' Tlie Commander-in-chief, his suite ; the Marquis Dc La
Fayette, his train ; Lord Stirling, General Greene, and the
other principal officers, who had joined his excellency, having
finished the review, retired to the centre of the encampment,
to a kind »f amphitheatre, which had been fonned to entertain
the officers of the army, who were invited to partake of a col-
lation with his excellency, after the feu dejoie.

" On firing of the third signal gun, the feu de joie com-
menced. It was conducted with great judgment and regu-
larity. The gradual progression of the sound from the discharge
of cannon and musketry, swelling and rebounding from the
neighboring hills, and gently sweeping along the Schuylkill,
with the intermingled huzzas — ^to long live the King of France
— long live the friendly European powers, and long live the
American States, composed a military music more agreeable
to a soldier's ear than the most finished pieces of your favorite
Handel.

" T\ie feu dejoie being over, and the troops marched back to
their different quarters, the officers came forward to the enter-
tainment provided by his excellency. But I must not pass
over the description of their order of march.

" Some of the ancients were not more attached to their mys-
tical figures than many of the moderns. We of America have
our number tiiikteen. The oflicers approached the place of
entertainment in difi'erent columns, thirteen abreast, and closely
linked together in each other's arms. Tlie appearance was
pretty enough. The number of officers composing each line,
signified the Tliirteen American States ; and the interweaving
of arms a complete union and most perfect confederation.

" The amphitheatre looked elegant. The outer seats for the
officers were covered with tent canvas stretched out upon poles ;
and the tables in the centre shaded by elegant markees, raised
high, and arranged in a very striking and agreeable style. An
excellent band of music attended during the entertainment ;
but the feast was still more animating by the discourse and
behavior of his excellency to the officers, and the gentlemen
in the country (many of them our old Philadelphia acquaint-
ances) who were present on this occasion. Mrs. Washington,

52 DIAEY OF THE EEVOLtTTION. [1778.

the Countess of Stirling, Lady Kitty her daughter, Mrs. Greene,
and a number of other ladies, favored the feast with their com-
pany, amongst whom good humor and the graces were con-
tending for the pre-eminence. Tlie wine circulated in the most
genial manner — to the King of France — the friendly European
powers — the American States — the Honorable Congress, and
other toasts of a similar nature, descriptive of the spirit of
freemen.

" About six o'clock in the evening the company broke up,
and his excellency returned to head-quarters. Tlie French
gentlemen of rank and distinction seemed peculiarly pleased
with this public approbation of our alliance with their nation.
The general himself wore a countenance of uncommon delight
and complacence. I wish that you, who are so great an adept
in preserving the expressions of nature, had been here to have
done justice to him and the army. Tlie latter, in particular,
never looked so well, nor in such good order, since the begin-
ning of the war. And here I cannot forbear mentioning a little
anecdote that I am told happened during the review. An
officer was called to one side in order to know what was to be
done with a spy Mdio was making observations on the army.
But the officer coolly observed to the gentleman who gave the
information, that he thought it best to take no further notice
of the spy, but suffer him to return to his employers, as they
must feel more pain from his account of the army, than grief
on hearing of his detection and death.

" ■\Vliat may be reckoned somewhat remarkable, not one ac-
cident happened to lessen or disturb the joy of the day; and
the whole was closed by the officers returning to the duties of
their several stations M'ith hearts filled with the warmest sen-
sations to the great cause of their rejoicings." '

May 19. — Yesterday the British army, anxious to give Sir

William Howe the most public and splendid testimony of the

The ^"?^^^ esteem they entertain of him as a general,

Mischianza. j^j^^j ^f ^]^g affcctiou and attachment which his

popular conduct has secured to him from all ranks, both of

' Kew York Journal, June 15.

1778.] THE MISCHIAI>ZA. 53

officers and men, prepared a magnificent entertainment to
grace liis departure from Philadelphia. It consisted of a
variety of parts, and was therefore called the MISCHIANZA.
Tlie admission tickets were decorated with a sun just verging
towards the horizon, with this inscription, Luces descedens
aucto spJendore resurgam. On the lower part of the shield
was the sea — at top the general's crest, with the words Vive,
vale, and at the bottom and all round, different military
trophies. Tlie fete began at four o'clock in the afternoon, by a
grand procession on the Delaware, consisting of three divisions
— a galley and ten flat-boats in each division. In the centre
division was the Hussar galley, with the general, the admiral,
General Sir Henry Clinton, and the ladies of their party. Tliree
flat-boats, with bands of music in each, led the procession.

They set out from Knight's wharf at a signal from the Vigi-
lant, and proceeded till they arrived off the Market Place, where
the Fanny armed ship was drawn off into the stream, and
beautifully decorated with a variety of colors. Here they lay
on their oars while the music played " God save the King."
Tliey then proceeded to the Old Fort, where a landing place
was prepared, and as soon as the general landed he was saluted
with nineteen guns from the Eoebuck, and the same number
from the Vigilant. Tlie company, as they cjuitted the boats,
formed themselves into a line of procession, and advanced be-
tween two flies of grenadiers till they came to a square of four
hundred yards on every side, railed in and prepared for the
tournament. In front of the square was Sir Harry Colder's
house, appearing through two triumphal arches, erected, one in
honor of Lord Howe, the other of Sir William. Two sofas,
in form of amphitheatres, formed the advanced wings of one
of these arches. On these the ladies took their places, advanc-
ing to them through the centre of the square. On the lowest
seat of each were seven young ladies dressed in the Asiatic
habits, and wearing the different colors of the kniglits who
chose them for their damsels. Here the tournament com-
menced, when the elegance and richness of the different dresses
of the knights and squires, their horses' trappings and capari-
sons, the taste displayed in their mottoes and devices, the

5i DIAET OF THE EEVOLUTION. [1778.

various evolutions and feats of arms tliey performed, exhibited
altogether a spectacle as new, as it surpassed the most sanguine
expectations of the beholders. As soon as the tournament
ended, the knights and squires, two and two, moved through
the first triumphal arch, which was decorated with naval orna-
ments. At the top was the statue of l^eptime with his tri-
dent ; in the interior were the attributes of that god, and in a
niche on each side stood a sailor with his sword drawn ; on the
two wings were plumes of feathers, with this description on the
entablature, Laus illi debetur, et alme gratia major. An
avenue of three hundred yards iu length, and thirty-five in
breadth, lined with troops, and decorated with the colors of the
difi"erent regiments, planted at proper distances, led to the sec-
ond triumphal arch. Between these colors the knights Avith
their attendants ranged themselves, and the company, preceded
by all the music of the army, advanced in procession. Tliey
were led into the house through the second arch, erected in
honor of the general. Tliis arch was of the Tuscan order ; on
the pediment was Fame with her trumpet ; in the interior was
a plume of feathers, and military trophies, and on the entabla-
ture, 7", hone, quo virtus vocat tiia, I pede fausto. The house
within side was painted in a light elegant style, with festoons,
and several emblematical figures ; mirrors, girandoles and chan-
deliers, decorated with wreaths of diff'erent colored gauze,
adorned the walls. Tlie company were entertained with tea
and refreshments, and then danced till half after ten o'clock ;
the windows being then suddenly thrown open, a grand and
beautiful display of fireworks was exhibited.

Towards the conclusion, the triumphal arch next the house
appeared magnificently illuminated, and Fame blcAV from her
trumpet in letters of light, " Tliy laurels shall never fade."

After the fireworks the company sat down to a supper con-
sisting of a thousand and twenty-four dishes, in a magnificent
apartment built for the occasion, decorated in the same style
and elegance as the rooms in the house. Tlie herald of the
hlended rose, in his robes of ceremony, announced by sound of
trumpet the King's health ; the Queen and Royal Family ; the
Army and Navy, and their respective commanders ; the La-

1778.] TIIE MISCHIAIfZA. 55

dies. A salute of music and three cheers graced each of tliese
toasts. After supper tlie company returned to the ball room,
and at four o'clock they all withdrew.

Tlie following lines were intended to have been delivered
by the herald, (after the knights had approached the pavilion
in which were the general and the ladies,) holding a laiirel
wreath in his hand, with the following inscription ; but, in del-
icacy to the general, they were suppressed :

Mars, conquest-plum'' d, the Cyprian Queen disarms,
And victors vanquished yield to beauty's charms.

[He hangs the crown on the front of the pavilion, and proceeds.^

Here then the laurel — here the palm we yield,

And all the glories of the tilted field ;

Here, Whites and Blacks, -n-ith blended homage pay,

To each device the honors of the day.

Hard were the task, and impious to decide.

Where both are fairest, which the fairer side.

Enough for us, if by such sports we strove

To deck this feast of military love,

And, joining in the wish of ev'ry heart,

Honor'd the friend and leader, ere we part.

When great in arras, our brave forefathers rose,
And loos'd the British lion on his foes ;
When the fall'n Gauls, then perjur'd too and base,
The faithless fathers of a faithless race,
First to attack, tho' still the first to yield.
Shrunk from their rage on Poictiers' laurell'd field ;
Oft, while grim war suspended his alarms.
The gallant bands with mimic deeds of arms,
Thus, to some fav'rite chief the feast decreed,
And deck'd the tilting knight, th' encount'ring steed,
In manly sports, that servM but to inspire
Contempt of death, and feed the martial fire ;
The lists beheld them celebrate his name,
Who led their steps to victory and fame,
Thro' ev'ry rank the grateful ardor ran.
All fear'd the chieftain— but all lov'd the man,
And fir'd with the soul of this bright day.
All paid to Sal'sh'ky what to Howe WE pay.

Shame to the envious slave that dares bemoan
Their sons degen'rate, or their spirits flown.

56 DIAET OF THE EEVOLUTION. [1778.

Let the madd'ning faction drive this guilty land,
With their worst foes, to form th' unnat'ral baud ;
In TON brave crowd, old British courage glows
Unconquer'd — growing as the danger grows.
With hearts as bold as e'er their father's bore
Their country they'll avenge, her fame restore.
Rous'd to the charge, methinks I hear them cry,
Revenge and glory spurkling in each eye,
" Chain'd to our arms, while Howe the battle led.
Still round these files her wings shall conquest spread;
Lov'd, the' he goes, the spirit stUl remains,
That with him bore us o'er these trembling plains.
On Hudson's ' bank the sure presage we read,
Of other triumphs to our arms decreed;
Nor fear but equal honors shall repay
Each hardy deed where Clinton points the way." "

May 20. — Br two deserters just come into New York from
Fishkill, we are informed that there are two regiments of New
Affairs at Fishkiii Englanders at that place. "WTien the draughts
Hew York. ' ^f ^he bills' got among them, they laid down
their arms ; but after being treated with a roasted ox and
plenty of rum, they took them up again ; yet they refuse to
work on the West Point Fort, saying it is a trap laid for them
by General Washington. The militia at Fishkiii were some
time ago put in three classes, each to work at the fort by turns ;
aboiit twenty-two of the first turned out, biit none of the second
and third. The young men have almost all left that place, and
are secreted in different parts of the country, or come or coming
to New York. The above was reported by one of them lately
at Tarrytown ; those of pi'operty give one hundred dollars and
upwards to such as will attend a fortnight for them. About
three weeks ago there were not a hundred men at the West
Point ; General M'Dougal is at the village above Peekskill ;
Colonel Graham commands one or two regiments at Tarry-
town ; Colonel Hammond one at the White Plains. Tltey
have likewise some militia, the mmibers of either not known.

Since the conciliatory offers were published, the friends to

" Alluding to the North JRivcr expedition.

' Pennsylvania Ledger, May 2:3. ' The Conciliatory Bills.

1778.] AFFAIRS AT FISHKILL. 57

government have been and are handled more severely than
ever. At Northcastle, and other parts, if they are not soon
relieved, they expect to he extirpated. TIao reports circulated
in the country are, that France and Spain have declared war
against England ; that all the troops are called home ; that
Emmerick ' had left Kingsbridge some days ago, and that
neitlier King nor Parliament conld raise either more men or
more money. These things they believe, or pretend to believe,
and treat the poor Tories accordingly. It is not certain that
the above is the real disposition of their force, but it is gen-
erally reported and believed to be such. Tliey have procured
no volunteers for a long time past.

About the middle of April last, one "Williams went out of
'New York, in order to bring down, if possible, his wife and a
numerous and destitute family of young children, who were
siifiering for the want of the necessaries of life in some part of
Northcastle. He was apprehended (at an honest farmer's
house where he had just stopped to refresh himself) by a
party of twenty-two of the rebels, after he had got within a
few miles of his suffering family. He frankly told them he
came from New York, and the urgent business he was upon,
and told them that now he looked upon himself as their pris-
oner, and delivered himself up accordmgly. They suspected
him for a horse-stealer, as they pretended, and with ropes and
theii- garters tied him fast to a place convenient for their pur-
pose, and withoiit allowing him to speak one word in his OAvn
defence, every one of the party discharged the contents of
their muskets through his body. Not yet satiated, they made
the man who received him the object of their cruelty, and he
only received him from a principle of hospitality, because he
saw he was worn out with fatigue. With the same ropes
and garters they fixed him to four horses, in order to quarter
him ; but luckily for him, this scene shocked one of the party
so powerfully that he prevented the rest of the tragedy from
being acted.^

Commander of the Chasseurs, see page 499, vol.
Eivington's Gazette, May 20.

58 DIAEY OF THE EEVOLUTION. [1778.

Mat 20. — A coeeespondent writes as follows : Tlie con-
ciliatory bill is not foimded on any secret negotiation wliatever.
The Conciliatory '^^'^ noblc pepson wlio introduced it ' formed it
^'"- upon the state of the nation, and the situation of
the times. Though the resources of war are far from Leing im-
possible to be got, there would be no prudence in squandering
millions on the mere punctilio of a right to tax a country in-
capable of furnishing a revenue adequate to the expense of
the force necessary to raise it. Besides, how can war go on
with spirit or success, when the wheels of executive govern-
ment are clogged by the opposition. By taking their groimd,
the minister has defeated their views, and has left America
without excuse, should she refuse to listen to the offers of the
representatives of the nation. Tlie acts, however, though
breathing peace, are not meant to suspend war. On the con-
trary, every nerve of the state is to be exerted, in order to
force an acquiescence to the terms proposed. Should the
Americans continue obstinate, a time is limited for the expira-
tion of offers, which are, perhaps, too favorable to rebels, and
then they nrast abide by such terms as the clemency of the
victors shall bestow on the vanqTiished."

May 31. — Last week, a party of British troops, from Ehode
Island, made a descent upon the towns of Bristol and War-
Attempt to Burn ^'^^) ^^^ ^^^^^ plundering and destroying all they
Tiverton. eould lay their hands on, they made a hasty re-
treat. Tliis morning, about daybreak, another party from the
same place, consisting of one hundred and fifty men, under the
command of Major Eyre, landed at the mouth of Fall Kiver,
with a design to burn Tiverton and the mills. Tliey set fire to
the lower mill, and a house that stood on the shore ; but the
town, and upper mills, by the vigilance of the inhabitants, were
saved. Apprised of the enemy's intention, they took up the
bridge, and posted themselves behind a wall that commanded
it, from whence they kept up so brisk a fire, that after an en-
gagement of nearly an liour and a half, the enemy were com-

' Lord North. ' Rivington's Gazette, Mny 30.

1778.] MAJOE EYKE AT TIVEETON. 59

pelled to retire, leaving behind them one killed and another
mortally wonnded. Five muskets and as many hats have since
been found, and from every circumstance it appears that their
loss -was considerable. The militia turned out with great alac-
rity, and repaired to the place of action ; but the precipitate
retreat of the enemy deprived those spirited fellows of an op-
portunity to revenge the injuries they have repeatedly received,
and of treating the detestable conflagrators as they justly de-
served.

The enemy's boats and shipping, in passing down the river,
received considerable annoyance from the American fort on
Bristol Neck. A galley that came up to cover them from the
well-directed fire of the fort, was driven on the Ehode Island
shore, and the men were obliged to abandon her ; a sloop that
attempted to assist hei- shared the same fate. The Americans
had not a man killed or wounded."

' New Hampshire Gazette, June 16. A writer in the British army gives the
following account of these excursions: — "The general having received certain
intelligence that the rebels were collecting their boats with a probable intention
of disturbing our quiet, last Saturday sent the galleys and flat-boats up the river,
and the next day the 22d regiment, light companies and chasseurs, under the
command of Lieutenant-Colonel Campbell, marched out of town. The night was
rainy, and I expected but little from this movement, but in the morning I was
agreeably disappointed ; the roar of cannon and columns of smoke soon convinced
me, that the rod of correction was judiciously applied to the backs of the rebels.
I hastened out of town to be a spectator of this scene; and I assure you it
was grand and solemn beyond description. The fire of the musketry, the blaze
of houses and vessels, the explosions of magazines, with pillars of smoke as-
cending like pyramids into the air, to a person not used to the desolating scenes
of war, was not a Httle affecting; and believe me, my friend, nothing could have
supported me, under so distressing a transaction, but a consciousness of the ex-
pediency and necessity of the measure. The conquering troops returned about
twelve o'clock that day, having performed a march of at least fifty miles, and
burnt one hundred and fifty boats, mostly large, two magazines, a large privateer,
a galley, a number of carriages and other stores, with about thirty houses in the
towns of Bristol and Warren. A fine galley belonging to the rebels was taken at
the same time by the boats from the ships, and brought off with her captain, and
about thirteen rebel prisoners. In short, the business they went upon was com-
pletely accomplished ; does honor to the officers and men, and is of the highest
importance to government. About eight of our men were wounded, and Lieu-
tenant Hamilton of the 22d, but happily none dangerous. Last evening we had
another expedition up Fall River, with one hundred men, under Major Eyre, de-

60 DIAKY OF THE EEVOLUTION. [1778.

A WEiTEE in New York offers the following appeal to the
loyal inhabitants of America :

My honest counteyjien :■ — ^I presume j'on have, for the
most part, read such articles of a treaty between France and
An Appeal to the ^^^ Congress, as the latter have been pleased to

Tories. publish ; and I doubt not you have read them
with that virtuous indignation which must burn in every loyal
breast. The declaration delivered by the French ambassador
to our court, fully evinces the duplicity of conduct which has
ever characterized that nation, and which our unhappy and
deluded countrymen have, for four long years, invariably pur-
sued. "We are now arrived at a period of time which we be-
fore could not have thought in the power of fate to bring about.
We have lived to see the offspring of Britain leagued in solemn
alliance with her most inveterate foe. I blush while I think
of it. I blush that the soil from whence I sprung should have
given birth to such unnatural feuds, and that the sons of
America should hold out the hand of friendship to ambitious
France, while they are plunging their swords into their parent's
breast.

In this situation, we, her true-born children, enjoy the
heartfelt satisfaction of having uniformly opj^osed, as far as
was in our power, the rise and progress of rebellious folly ; and
our sufferings display our virtue. The Congress have again
rejected the mild and equitable terms of peace held out to them
by Parliament, and have resolved to proceed in the footsteps
of blood, and the ruin of us all. It now becomes our duty to
exert ourselves with an intrepidity of soul that will in the end
pull down their high-blown pride. Britain is prepared to meet
her enemies ; her fleets are numerous — her armies disciplined,
and bravely determined for the conflict. We, the friends to
her government, are many in every province ; we have tasted
the sweets of it, and felt the pangs inflicted by usurpers. "We
must now lend a more helping hand than ever. You, wlio

stroyed two or three saw and grist mills, three and four houses and stores, a quantity
of boards, &c. The troops returned in the morning, having two men Icillod and
seven or eight wounded, amongst whom is Lieutenant Goldsmith of the 54th." —
lihinffton's Gazette, June 6.

1T78.] AN APPEAL TO THE TORIES. 61

still groan under their tyranny, I am certain will not be back-
ward. I have exj^erienced your distresses, and I feel for yon.
Your counsels and assistance, however, as far as circumstances
will admit, must not be wanting. To you who are driven from
your once happy habitations by cruel persecution, little argu-
ment is necessary to urge you to every exertion. Forced from
your families, your connections, and your property, you have
here found a peaceful asylum. The soldiers of your King afford
you that protection which was denied you by your inexorable
neighbors. Tlie calamity which has fallen upon you is very
great, but the noble conviction of having acted an honest part,
is far greater. You withstood the torrent with manly forti-
tude, till, overpowered by its force, yoii have been obliged to
fly before it. Your loyalty is acknowledged, and your perse-
verance will insure success.

My fellow-citizens claim their share of merit. Yoii saw, at
the first, rebellion rearing its head, and you endeavored to lop
it off. You stood firm in opposition to the measures pursued
by the Congress, while every other city upon the continer.t was
agreeing to their resolves. But unsupported at that time, yoii
were obliged to yield. The imprisonment and captivity of your
persons — the destriiction of your dwellings and your effects,
and the long train of evils consequent upon them, conspire to
raise in your breasts a jiistifiable revenge. Our King, our coun-
try, and constitutional government, are the causes which impel
all of us to action, and every lover of theni will lend his aid in
their siipport. Let rebels seek unnatural alliance with perfid-
ious Frenchmen ! We boast a natural one with the brave, the
generous Britons, founded upon the ties of consanguinity, and
a reciprocity oi language, of manners, and of religion/

I will not point out to you the dismal consequences which
would ensue to themselves, as well as to us, should these blind-
folded people obtain the independency they wish for, because
I have not an idea of their establishing it. Every one who is
acquainted with our strength, and their weakness, must know
they cannot. Let not the war bo protracted. Every day it
continues, injures our country. It is not sufficient that we
stand prepared to repel an attack, it is necessary that we should

62 DIARY OF TUE KEVOLrXIO?^. [1T7S.

assist in some other way. A subscription for a bounty to be
added to Avhat is now allowed to recruits, would induce many
more to enlist than do at present ; and such subscription, I am
certain, would be very considerable in this and the other places
which are possessed by the King's troops.

Nothing further need be urged ; your generosity has been
experienced upon other occasions, and certainly will on this.
On this your safety, perhaps your very existence, depends, for
you must look to Heaven- — -to the magnanimity of Britain, and
to your o^vn public spirit, for a return of that peace, security,
and happiness you once enjoyed above every other people on
earth.'

June 5. — ^The last accounts from Philadelphia are, that the
transports with the baggage have fallen down the river — that
the British have begun to destroy some of their outworks —
that they have broken off the trunnions of the heavy cannon
which arc not put on board, and that the whole army is or-
dered to be in readiness to march at a minute's warning.

A flag came out from the city yesterday, with a packet for
Congress, containing the acts for appointing commissioners
Arrival of the ^"^^ otlier purposcs. Tlic Commissioners are Lord
Commissioners, Carlisle, Govcruor Johnston, and William Eden,
Esquire. There was also a letter from General Clinton to his
Excellency General Washington, proposing an exchange of the
prisoners who are in Philadelphia, the others to remain until
a cartel is settled. The British officer informed General Lee,
who received him, that the British intended to leave Philadel-
phia soon, and that he had permission to mention it.

Tlie commissioners mentioned in the above arrived at Phil-
adelphia on Sunday morning last. Lord Cornwallis also ar-
rived at the same time, but without troops.'

June 17. — Tms day the Congress agreed to an answer to
the letters and inclosurcs sent to them by the commissioners

" A Citizen," in Rivington's Gazette, June 6.

Extract of a letter from Valley Forge, in the New Jersey Gazette, June 10.

177S.] JEESETMEN VISIT FLATBCSH. 63

lately arrived at Pliiladelpliia, to treat of reconciliation, of
wliieli the following is an extract : '• — ■" Tlie acts of the British
Parliament, the commission from your sovereign, Congress' Eepiy to
and your letter, suppose the people of these "'^"^°"™'^'™""-
States to be subjects of the crown of Great Britain, and are
founded on the idea of dependence, which is utterly inadmis-
sible. I am further directed to inform your excellencies,^ that
Congress are inclined to peace, notwithstanding the unjust
claims from which this war originated, and the savage manner
in which it hath been conducted. They will therefore be ready
to enter upon the consideration of a treaty of peace and com-
merce, not inconsistent with treaties already subsisting, when
the King of Great Britain shall demonstrate a sincere dis-
position for that purpose. The only solid -proof of this dis-
■position will he an explicit acknowledgment of the independence
of these States, or the tvithdrawing his fleets and armies.'''' ^

Last Saturday night, about eleven o'clock, a small party of
rebels, from Jersey, landed at New Utrecht, on Long Island, and
immediately proceeded to Flatbush, where several j^^^^ ^^^ ^jsif
gentlemen of New York have country houses. riatbush.
The rebels, being well informed of this circumstance, and
joined and led on by one of the rebel officers named Forrest,
who was on parole there, and who deserted with them, being
assisted by many of the rebel officers then also on their parole,
and residing at Flatbush, who, it appears, had intelligence of
their coming, divided themselves into three parties, and sur-
rounded the houses of Major l^Ioncrieffe, David Mathews, Es-
quire, mayor of the city, and Mr. Tlieophylact Bache ; finding

' Letter of Governor Livingston.

^ The answer was drawn by a committee, and sent with the signature of the
President.

' Broadsides, v. i., p. 30, and Gordon, ii. 366. Smythe, in his Diary for July 1,
in noting this decision of the Congress, says, "What next? That school of im-
pudence and ingratitude, the Congress, even refuse to listen to the proposals of
the commissioners, and say, 'till the British fleets and armies be withdrawn, we
will not treat.' Clinton soon will bring them to their senses, by hanging the
leaders higher than Haman's top-knot, and setting the dupes on the stoniest stools
of repentance."

64: DIAEY OF THE KEVOLTJTIOST. [1Y7S.

easy access into tlie houses of the major and Mr. Bache, they
surprised them both before they had the least suspicion of dan-
ger. They were civil to the major, but at Mr. Bache's they be-
haved in their usual savage style ; they gave Mrs. Baelie seve-
ral blows on her entreating them not to use her husband ill ;
wounded one of the female servants with their bayonets, plun-
dered the house of the plate they could find, and dragged away
Mr. Bache without giving him time to put on his clothes.
They were not so successful at the mayor's, who seemed to
have been their principal object. From an apprehension tliat
the rebels Avould embrace the first opportunity of taking him,
and being suspicious that such an opportunity might possibly
happen, he had taken care that his doors and windows shoidd be
well secured, and never opened at night on any pretence, until
it should be well known within who were without. Tlie first
tap at the door, which was in a seeming friendly manner,
alarmed Mr. Mathews, who instantly concluded they were a
party come to take him, and without the least inquiry, took
such a post, that, although they should force in below, it would
require a considerable time to gain the place where he had fixed
himself, and where he was resolved to have lost his life rather
than be carried off. He at the same time ordered one of his
blacks to an upper window and endeavor to alarm the inhabit-
ants. The loud cry of murder from the black was the first in-
telligence tlie rebels had of their being suspected, upon which
they began a most furious attack on the door with the butts of
tlieir muskets, and threatening destruction to the whole family
unless they were immediately let in ; but finding their threats
were of no service, the alarm still kept up by the servants, and
one or two of their muskets being broke, and no impression
made on the door, they then attacked the windows, which for
a long time withstood their efforts, but at length one of the
windows gave way, which aflTorded sufficient room for their
entrance. The cry of the servant awakened a negro belonging
to Mr. Chief Justice Horsmanden, living in the neighborhood,
who discovered what was going forward at the instant the
rebels were entering the mayor's window, and immediately re-
collecting tliat he had a musket in the house, ran out and fired

177S.] BEITISir EVACUATE PHILADELrHIA. 65

it, wliicli so terrified these sliabby cord-svainers, that they in-
stantly fled with the greatest precii^itation, carrying off with
them the major and Mr. Bache.

Messrs. Miles Sherbrooke, and Angnstns Van Cortlandt,
were also to have been taken off, had they not been alarmed
by the Ethiopian's fire. Immediately on the intelligence being
received at Brooklyn, where Colonel Cockburn commanded.
Captain Drew, with a detachment from the 35th regiment,
marched to Flatbiish, and, highly to his honor, arrived there
much sooner than could possibly have been expected, but the
wonted speed of the rebels saved them to Jtr/ht another da>j.'

A coEEEsroNDENT iu Loudon observes the contest with
America to be somcAvhat like the game of All Fours. Eng-
land deals, America begs, England refuses and deals on. This
strengthens America's hand, who, in the course of play, takes
England's Jack (John Burgoyne) and several of her tens.
Afterward England begs, and America in her turn refuses,
who, only wanting three to be np, reckons highest, Jack and
Game — England is lowest.''

June 19.- — The British arms having proved ineffectual to
subdue America, the arts of negotiation are now to be tried.
What confidence we ouofht to place in the com- „....,,

o 1 British Evacuate

missioners, the following fact will show : — On the Pi'i'sdeiphia.
30th of November, 1776, Lord Howe and General Howe, com-
missioners under the British tyrant, publish.ed a proclamation,
offering pardon to every one, without exception, who would
comply with its terms. In a letter of the same date, and in-
closing the same proclamation to Lord George Germaine, after
apologizing for so apparently lenient a measure, they say " ex-
ceptions from his Majesty's pardon, as well as any prolonga-
tion of the time within which a pardon may be obtained, will
be a matter of future consideration, according to the circum-
stances that may arise." If any infidel Tory discredits this re-
cent proof of British perfidy and baseness, by looking into the

' Rivington's (Jazette, June 17. ' New York Journal, September 7.

Vol. II.— 5

(iO DIARY OF THE EETOLUTION. [1778.

Parliamentary Eeglster, number forty-eiglit, and mimber six
of the fourth session of the present Parliament, he will find the
letter, among others, laid before the House of Lords.

Tlie British army, early yesterday morning, completed their
cA^acuation of Philadelphia, having before transported their
stores and most of their artillery into Jersey, -where they had
thrown up some works, and several of their regiments were
encamped. Tliey manned the lines the preceding night, and
retreating over the commons, crossed at Gloucester Point.' It
is supposed they will endeavor to go to New York. A party
of the American light horse pursued them very close, and took
a great number of prisoners, some of whom were refugees.
Soon after the evaciiation, the Honorable Major-Gen eral Ar-
nold took possession of Philadelpliia, Avitli Colonel Jackson's
Massachusetts regiment."

June 29. — His Excellency General "Washington, having
early intelligence of the intended movement of the enemy from

Battle of Philadelphia, detached a considerable body of
Monmouth, troops uudcr the command of Major-General Lee,
in order to support General Maxwell's brigade of continental
troops already in New Jersey, and the militia under Generals
Dickinson and Heard. These troops were intended to harass
the enemy on their march through the State to Amboy, and
retard them till General "Washington, with the main body, could
get up. La the mean time several small skirmishes happened
between the enemy and General Maxwell's troops, joined by the
militia, but without any considerable execution on either side.

The march of the enemy being by this means imi^eded, and
the main army having crossed the Delaware at Coryell's ferry
on the 20th and 21st ultimo, proceeded by the Avay of Hope-
well, Kocky Hill, Kingston, and ' Cranbury, and on the 27th
overtook the enemy at Monmouth Court House, whither they
retired from Allentown on the approach of our troops, leaving
their intended route to Amboy.

' Gloucester Point is in New Jersey, on the Delaware, .about three miles below
Camden. " Pennsylvania Evening Post, June 20.

1778.] BATTLE OF MONMOUTIF. 67

It having been previously determined to attack tlie enemy
on their march, a suitable disposition was made the same even-
ing. General Lee, with a detachment of picked men, consist-
ing of about fifteen hundred, and reinforced by a strong body
of Jersey militia, advanced to English Town, (about six miles
from Monmouth Court House ; ) the militia then proceeded to
the meeting-house, the main army, under General Washington,
being about four miles in the rear of English Town. In this
position the whole halted until advice could be received of the
enemy's motion.

At three o'clock yesterday (Sunday) morning, their first
division, under General Knyphausen, began their march, of
which we had intelligence in about two hours, when General
Lee had orders to advance and begin the attack, the mai)i army
at the same time advancing to support him. About half a mile
beyond the Court House, General Lee began his attack, and
drove the enemy for some time, when they being reinforced,
he was obliged to retreat in turn, till met by General Washing-
ton with the main army, which formed on the first advantage-
ous ground. In the mean time two field-pieces, covered by
two regiments of the detachment, and commanded by Colonels
Livingston and Stewart, were advanced to check the enemy's
approach, which they performed with great spiiit and con-
siderable loss on both sides. Tliis service being performed,
they retired with the pieces to the front line, then completely
formed, when the severest cannonade began tliat it is thought
ever happened in America. In the mean time, strong detach-
ments marched and attacked the enemy with small arms, with
various success. Tlie enemy were finally obliged to give way,
and we took possession of the field covered with dead and
wounded. The intense lieat of the weather, and the preceding
fatigue of the troops, made it necessary to halt them to rest for
some time ; ' the enemy, in the mean time, presenting a front

' The heat of the weather proved fatal to many in both armies. A corre-
spondent in a letter to London, says, " A major-general, high in command, lost
three horses during the engagement from the intense heat of the weather, the
thermometer having been at the astonishing height of ninety-two." — Upcott, v.

68 DIAEY OF THE EEVOLUTIOX. [1778.

about one mile advanced beyond the seat of action. As soon
as the troops had recovered breath, General "Washington or-
dered two brigades to advance upon each of their flanks, in-
tending to move on in front at a proper time to support tliem,
but before they could reach their destination, night came on,
and made any further movements impracticable.

The British left on the field the Honorable Colonel Monckton
with several other ofliccrs, and a great number of privates, which
cannot yet be ascertained with precision. About twelve o'clock
last night they moved otf with great pi-ecipitation, towards
Middletown, leaving at the Court House five wounded officers,
and above forty privates. Tliey began the attack with their
veteran grenadiers and light infantry, which renders their loss
still more important. On our side Lieutenant-Colonel Bon-
ner, of Pennsylvania, and Major Dickinson, of Virginia, are
slain. Colonel Barber," of New Jersey, is wounded by a mus-
ket ball, which passed through the right of his body ; but it is
hoped will not prove mortal. Our troops behaved with the
greatest bravery, and opposed the fiower of tlie British aiTay.
Our artillery was well served, and did amazing execution. Be-
fore, during, and after the action, deserters came over to us in
great numbers, and still continue so to do. Of the enemy's
dead many have been found without any wound, but being
heavily clothed, they sank under the lieat and fatigue. We
are well assured the Hessians absolutely refused to engage,
declaring it was too hot. Tlieir line of march from the Court
House was strewed with dead, with arms, knapsacks, and
accoutrements, which they dropped on their retreat. Tliey
had the day before taken about fifteen prisoners, whom in their
haste they left behind. Had we been possessed of a powerful
body of cavalry on the field, there is no doubt the success
would have been much more complete, but they had been
employed in harassing the enemy during the march, and
were so detached, as to give the enemy a great superiority in
number, much to their advantage. Our success, under Heaven,
is to be wholly ascribed to the good disposition made by his

' Francis Barber.

1778.] EETEEAT FKOJI MONMOUTH. 69

excellency, supported by tlie firmness and bravery of both,
officers and men, wlio were emulous to distinguisb themselves
on this occasion. The great advance of the enemy on their
way, their possession of the strong grounds at Middletown,
added to the exhausted state of our troops, made an immediate
pursuit ineligible ; and the American army now remains about
one mile advanced from the field of battle, having been since
employed in collecting the dead and wounded, and burying
the former.'

June 30. — ^This evening, the party despatched yesterday by
his excellency to observe the motions of the enemy, returned
to camp. They report that the enemy have con- Retreat
tinned their march very precipitately. The roads ^""^ Monmouth.
are strewn with knapsacks, firelocks, and other implements of
war. On the night of their retreat, they moved oft' the field so
silently, that our outposts did not discover their absence until

' New York Journal, July 13. Gaine gives the following account of this ac-
tion : — " On Sunda)' morning, the 28th instant, the rear of the royal army, under
the command of General Sir Henry Clinton, was attacked by the rebel army, com-
manded by Generals Washington, Lee, Gates, Wayne, and La Fayette, about one
mile and a half west of Freehold Court House, in Monmouth county. New Jersey,
when the grenadiers, light infantry, and Queen's Rangers distinguished themselves
in a particular manner, having opposed the whole of Mr. Washington's army and
pursued them several miles. Their loss we know not, but it is said to be great.

" The following officers are amongst the killed, in the royal army : — Lieutenant-
Colonel Monckton and Captain John Gore of the 5th.* The wounded are, Lieu-
tenant-Colonel Trelawney of the Guards ; Lieutenant-Colonel Abercrombie, 37th ;
Major William Gardner, 10th ; C-aptain Andrew Cathcart, 15th ; Captain William
Brereton, l^th; Captain Harry Ditmass, 15th; Captain Baldwin Leighton, 46th;
Lieutenant Mungo Paumier, do.; Lieutenant Disborough of the marines; Captain
John Powell, 52d ; Captain Thomas Wills, 23d; Lieutenant Patrick Belley, Guards ;
Captain Stephenson, Queen's Rangers, (before the action ;) Lieutenant-Colonel
Simcoe, Queen's Rangers ; Captain Lloyd, 46th ; Lieutenant Kennedy, 44th. We
are informed that the following is an exact return of the loss of the royal army :
killed, 110; wounded, 172; missing, 50; total 338.

" It is certain the rebels have not suffered so heavy a loss as on this occasion, in
any engagement since their defeat on Long Island." — New York Gazette, July 0.

* A private letter from an olTicer in the guards to his friend in London, mentions, that in
the affair between the American rebels and tlio royal army on the 2Sth of June, General Clinton
behaved with the greatest coolness and intrepidity ; that his manoeuvres were highly capital,
but that he narrowly missed bein?: killed hy a musket ball, which passed within a few Inches
of his head and knocked down a sergeant who stood near him. — Upcoft, v. 1-13

70 DIAKY OF THE EEVOLrXIOX. [ITTS.

late in the morning. To-day they are at Sandy Hook, from
whence it Is expected they will soon remove to New York.'

Tims (says a correspondent) the enemy have had two cam-
paigns to march from New York to Philadelphia, and back
again, with the diminution of at least half his amiy. How
much cheaper might his Britannic Majesty buy sheep and oxen
in England, in the usual manner, than he now gets them, by
employing an army to steal them in America ! ''

July 11. — Early this afternoon, his Excellency Monsieur
Gerard, ambassador from his Most Christian Majesty to the
Gerard at United Statcs, arrived at Philadelphia. He was
Philadelphia, accompanied from Chester to an elegant apart-
ment provided for him in Market Street, by a committee of
Congress, appointed for that purpose. On his entrance into the
city, he was saluted by Colonel Proctor's artillery. It is im-
possible to describe the joy that appeared in every good man's
countenance on this auspicious event. His excellency came in
a frigate, part of a fleet of twelve ships of the line from Toi^lon,
mider the command of Coimt D'Estaing.^

July 13. — General Wasiiingtox's army is now encamped
at Elizabethtown, Newark, Hackensack, etc., in New Jersey ;
and the following regiments are at the White Plains, viz. : Put-
nam's, "Webb's, Enos', Mieg's, Sheldon's, Nixon's, Sherbiirn's,

" Carver, ii. 31. Smythe, ia his diary, November 8, says: "This afternoon a
party of our horse brouglit in two rebel privates from Powles Hook. One of them
is very intelligent and communicative ; but the other is the most vrhimsical tony
I ever have seen. Wherever he goes, he carries witli him a large gray cat,
wliich he says came into the rebel camp on the night after the battle at Freehold
Mecting-House, and which he first discovered lapping a spot of dry blood on his
sleeve, as he lay on his arms expecting another dash at the British. Ilis affection
for the cat is as wonderful as hers is for him, for they are inseparable. He says
if we don't allow him extra rations for his cat, he shall be obliged to allow them
out of his own."

- New York Journal, July 13.

' TJpcott, V. 189. The afternoon of the same day, D'Estaing arrived off
Sandy Hook, but being unable to cross the bar, on the 2'2d, at the solicitation of
General Washington, he sailed for Rhode Island, to co-operate with the land forces
under General Sullivan.

ins.] THE WYOMING MASSACEE. Tl

Graliam's, and "Willis's, witli some light horse. They occiipy
the groTind on which General IIoavc engaged General Wash-
ington in the j^ear 1776, and are commanded by Generals Gates,
McDougall, Parsons, and two other brigadier-generals.'

July 20. — Dueing the past week many of the distressed
refugees from the Wyoming settlement on the Snsqnehannah,
who escaped the general massacre of the inhabit- ^^^ Wyoming
ants, have passed through Poughkeepsic, in Xew Massacre.
York. From them we have collected the following account,
viz. : — Previous to the narrative, it may be necessary to inform
some of our readers, that this settlement was made by the
people of Connecticnt, on a grant of lands piircliased by the
inhabitants of that colony, nnder sanction of the government,
of the Indian pi-oprietors ; and that these lands, falling within
the limits of the Pennsylvania claim, a dispute concerning the
right has arisen between the two governments, and proceeded
to frequent acts of hostility. When it was at a height that
threatened the disturbance of the other governments. Congress
interposed, by whose recommendation and authority the de-
cision of the dispute was suspended till that with Great Britain,
equally interesting to every American State, was concluded,
when there might be more leisure to attend to the other, and
consider the justice of each claim.

On this footing the dispute has lain dormant for two or
three years ; the inhabitants lived happily, and the settlement
increased, consisting of eight townships, viz. : Lackawanna,
Exeter, Kingston, Wilkesbarre, Plymouth, Nanticoke, Hunt-
ington, and Salem, each containing five miles square. The
six lower townships were pretty full of inhabitants, tlie two up-
per ones had comparati^•ely but few, thinly scattered. Tlie
lands are exceeding good, beautifully situated along both sides
of the Susquehannali, navigable for flat-bottomed boats, and
produced immense quantities of grain of all sorts, roots, fruits,
hemp, flax, &c., and stock of all kinds in abundance. The
settlement had lately supplied the continental army with three

' Gaine's Mercury, July 13.

72 DLIEY OF TUE EEVOLUTIOX. [1778.

tliousand bushels of grain, and tlie ground was loaded -witli the
most iironiising crops of every kind. The settlement included
upwards of a thousand families, which had furnished our army
with a thousand soldiers, besides the garrisons of four forts, in
the townships of Lackawanna, Exeter, Kingston, and Wilkes-
barre. One of these forts was garrisoned by upwards of four
hundred soldiers, chiefly of the militia, the principal officers in
which were Colonels Dennison and Zebulon Butler.

The Tories and Indians had given some distui-bance to these
settlements last year, before General Herkimer's battle at
Oneida Creek, near Fort Stanwix, and our skirmishes soon
after with parties of the enemy at and near Schoharie, when
they were dispersed, and the Tories concealed themselves
among our diftcrent settlements; the people here remained
undisturbed during the rest of the year.

About tl«s time the inhabitants having discovered that
many of these villanous Tories who had stirred up the In-
dians, and been with them in fighting against us, were within
the settlements, twenty-seven of them were, in January last,
taken up and secured. Of these, eighteen were sent to Con-
necticut, the rest after being detained some time and examined
were, for want of sufficient evidence, set at liberty ; they im-
mediately joined the enemy, and became active in raising in
the Indians a spirit of hostility against us. This disposition
soon after began to appear in the behavior of the Tories and
Indians, which gave the people apprehensions of danger, and
occasioned some preparations for defence.

Tlie people had frequent intimations that the Indians had
some mischievous design against them, but their fears were
somewhat abated by the seeming solicitude of the Indians to
preserve peace ; they sent down at different times, several par-
ties with declarations of their peaceable disposition toward us,
and to request the like on our part towards them. Tliey were
always dismissed with assurances that there was no design to
disturb them. But one of those Indians getting drunk, said he
and the otiier messengers were only sent to amuse the people
in the settlement, but that the Indians intended, as soon as
they were in order, to attack them. On this tlie Indian men

1778.] THE AVTOMING MASSACRE. 73

■were confined, and the women sent back Avith a flag. In
March, appearances became more alanning, and tlie scattered
families settled for thirty miles np the river, were collected
and brought into the more populous parts. In April and May,
strolling parties of Indians and Tories, about thirty and under
in a company, made frequent incursions into the settlement,
robbing and plundering the inhabitants of provision, grain, and
live stock. In June, several persons being at work on a f;inn
from which the Tory inhabitants had gone to the enemy, were
attacked, and one man of them killed ; soon after, a woman
(wife of one of the twenty-seven Tories before mentioned) was
killed, with her five children, by a party of these Tories and
Indians, who plundered the house of every thing they could take
away, and destroyed the rest.

On the iirst instant (July) the whole body of the enemy,
consisting, it is supposed, of near sixteen hundred.«(about three
hundred of whom were thought to be Lidians, imder their o^vn
chiefs, the rest, Tories, painted like them, except their ofiicers,
who were dressed like regulars,) the whole under the command
of Colonel John Butler, (a Connecticut Tory, and cousin to
Colonel Zebulon Butler, the second in command in the settle-
ment,) came down near the iipper fort, but concealed the great-
est part of their number ; here they had a skirmish with the
inhabitants, who took and killed two Indians, and lost ten of
their own men, three of whom they afterwards found killed,
scalped, and mangled in the most inhuman manner.

Thursday, July 2. — The enemy appeared on the mountains,
back of Kingston, when the women and children then fled into
the fort. Most of the garrison of Exeter fort were Tories, who
treacherously gave it np to the enemy. Tlie same night, after
a little resistance, they took Lackawanna fort, killed Squire Jen-
kins and his family, with several others, in a barbarous manner,
and made prisoners of most of the M'omen and children; a
small number only escaped.

Friday, July 3. — ^This morning Colonel Zebulon Butler,
leaving a small number to guard the fort, (Wilkesbarre,)
crossed the river with about four liundred men, and marched
into Kingston fort. The enemy sent in a flag, demanding a

7-i DIAIiY OF THE EEVOLTJTIOX. [1778.

STirrender of tlie fort in t-\vo liours. Colonel Bntler answered
he sliould not snrrcnder, bnt was ready to receive them. They
sent in a second flag, demanding an immediate surrender,
otherwise that the fort slioiiM be stormed, plundered, and burnt,
with all its contents, in a few hours, and said that they had
with them three hundred men. Colonel Butler proposed a
parley, wliich, being agreed to, a place in Kingston was ap-
pointed for the meeting, to which Colonel Z. Butler repaired
witli four hundred men well armed, but finding nobody there,
he proceeded to the foot of the mountain, where at a distance
he saw a flag, Avhich, as he advanced, retired, as if afraid,
twenty or thirty rods ; he following, was led into an ambush,
and partly surrounded by the enemy, who suddenly rose and
fired upon them. ]S^otwithstandiiig the great disproportion of
sixteen hundred to four hundred, he and his men bravely stood
and returned the fire for three-quarters of an hour, with such
briskness and resolution, that the enemy began to give way,
and were upon the point of retiring, when one of Colonel Z.
Butler's men, either through treachery or cowardice, cried out
that the colonel ordered a retreat. This caused a cessation of
their fire, threw them into confusion, and a total rout ensued.
Tlie greatest part fled to the river, which they endeavored to
pass, to Fort "Wilkesbarre ; the enemy pursued them with the
fury of devils ; many were lost or killed in the river, and no
more than about seventy, some of whom were Avounded, escaped
to Wilkesbarre.

Saturday morning, July -i. — Tlie cnemj- sent one hundred
and ninety-six scalps into Fort Kingston, which they invested
on the land side, and kept up a continual fire upon it.

This evening Colonel Z. Butler, with his family, cpiitted the
fort, and went down the river.

Colonel Nathan Dennison went with a flag to Exeter fort.
to know of Colonel John Butler what terms he would grant on
a surrender. Butler answered, the Ilatchd. Colonel Denni-
son returned to Fort Kingston, which he defended till Sunday
morning, when his men being nearly all killed or wounded, he
could hold out no longer, and was obliged to surrender at dis-
erutiop. The enemy took away some of tlie unlmppy prisoners.

177S.] THE WYOMING MASSACEE. 75

and shiitting up the rest iu the liouses, set fii-e to thorn, and
they were all consumed together. Tliese infernals then crossed
the river to Fort WiUiesbarre, which in a few minntes snrrcn-
dered at discretion. About seventy of the men, who had listed
in the continental service to defend the frontiers, they inhu-
manly butchered, with every circumstance of horrid cruelty ;
and then shutting up the rest, witli the women and cliildren in
the houses, they set fire to them, and they all perished together
in the flames.

After burning all the buildings in the fort, they proceeded
to the destruction of every building and improvement (except
what belonged to some Tories) that came within their reach,
on all these flourishing settlements, which they have rendered a
scene of desolation and horror, almost beyond description,
parallel, or credibility ; and were not the facts attested by num-
bers of the unhappy sufterers, from different quarters of the
settlement, and unconnected with each other, it woiild be im-
possible to believe that human nature could be capable of such
prodigious enormity.

When these miscreants had destroyed the other improve-
ments, they proceeded to destroy the crops on the ground, let-
ting in the cattle and horses to the corn, and cutting up as
much as they could of what was left. Great numbers of the
cattle they shot and destroyed, and cutting oiit the tongiies of
many others, left them to perish in misery.

Tlie course of these truly diabolical proceedings was marked
by many particiilar acts of distinguished enormity, among
which were the following, viz. :

Tlie Captains James Bedlock, Robert Duryee, and Samuel
Eansom, being made prisoners by the enemy, they stripped
Captain Bedlock, tied him to a tree, and stuck him full of
sharp splinters of pine knots, then piling a heap of pine knots
round him, they set all on fire, put Duryee and Ransom into
the fire, and held tliem down with pitchforks.

Tliomas Hill, (whose father was killed by the Indians last
Indian war,) witli his own hands killed his own mother, his
father-in-law, his sisters, and tlieir families.

Partial Terry, the son of a man who bore a very respectable

76 DIAEY OF THE EEVOLUTION. [1778.

character, had several times sent his father -word that he hoped
to wash his hands in his heart's blood. Agreeable to such a
liorrid declaration, the monster, with his own hand, murdered
his father, mother, brother and sisters, stripped off their scalps,
and cut otf his father's head.

Colonel Dennison was seen surrounded by the enemy, and
was doubtless murdered. Colonel Zebulon Butler is sujjposed
to be the only officer who escaped.

It is said he had several times written letters to the Con-
gress and General Washington, acquainting them with the dan-
ger the settlement was in, and requesting assistance, but that
he received no answer, except that he had no cause to fear,
since the Indians were all for peace and quite averse to war.
However, he lately received a letter from Captain Spaulding,
acquainting him that neither the Congress nor General Wash-
ington had received any of his letters, Avhich had been inter-
cepted by the Pennsylvania Tories, who, in all probability,
acted in concert with these execrable miscreants, against Wyo-
ming. It is reported that these wretches, after completing
their horrid business at Wyoming, are going or gone to Cherry
Valley, and the parts adjacent.

We liear that a party of infernals, of the like kind, Iiave,
within this week or two, infested the parts about Leghawegh,
near Koehester, on the Minisink road to Philadelphia, where a
party of them, about forty in number, have plundered and
burnt several houses, abused some people, and caiTied off three
men. It is hoped speedy and effectual measTires will bo taken
to punish and extirpate these moui^ters in human shape, from
the face of the earth.'

Tms afternoon sailed for England his Majesty's ship Mont-
real, commanded by Stair Douglass, Esquire, having on board
„ „ , , Lieutenant-Gcneral Sir Guy Carleton, Knight of

Guy Carleton '^ ~

leaves America, ^jjg Bath, aiul latc Govcruor of Canada, over
which he has presided since the 27th of September, 1700. He
left the castle of St. Lewis about one o'clock, (Lady Maria and

' New York Journal, July 20.

177S.] FEENCU FLEET AT EIIODE ISLAND. 7T

the children having gone on board the preceding evening,) and
was accompanied to the water side by his Excellency the Gov-
ernor, his Honor the Lientenant-Governor, the jndges, and
most of the principal gentlemen, both civil and military, as
well British as Canadians. The troops in garrison with the
British and Canadian militia, nnder arms, lined the streets on
both sides from the castle to the place of embarkation. After
Sir Gny, his Excellency General Ilaldiraand, and several other
gentlemen who went on board with him, had got into Captain
Pierson's barge, Avhich carried him to the frigate ; jnst as she
pushed off, he got iip and took an indiscriminate farewell of
the multitude on the beach, with an air of humanity and polite-
ness peculiar to him, and which seemed to indicate regret. A
royal salute was then fired from the ramparts, and, as soon as
he got on board, from the vessels. His departure is smcerely
regretted by many. His Excellency the Governor, and several
gentlemen who accompanied him as far as Patrick's Hole,
dined with him on board, and returned this evening.'

Yesterday, to the great joy of every good subject, the fleet
of his Most Christian Majesty, the great and wise ally of these
States, commanded by Admiral Count D'Estaing, French riect at
arrived oif Point Judith, when a number of pilots ^'^"^^ ^^■''°'^-
belonging to Providence went immediately on board, and
brought them safe to anchor off the harbor of Newport, where-
by our savage enemies are in their turn completely blockaded.

To-day, two French ships of the line came up on the west
side of Conanicut, and took their stations above the north end
of that island ; several shots were fired at them as they passed,
and a few retiirned. The enemy's ship which lay there got
under sail on the near approach of our friends, entered New-
port harbor by the east side of Conanicut, and fled to Rhode
Island, having previously blown up the magazine, spiked their
cannon, destroyed the works, and set fire to the barracks.
The Kingfisher, of sixteen guns, with two galleys, were blown
up by the enemy in Seconet River, on the approach of two

' Gaine's Mercury, November 16.

78 DIARY OF TUE EEVOLUTIOX. [1778.

other French ships. The Britons, with their friends the Tories,
are in great consternation, and a few days will probably pro-
duce events of the utmost importance.

The fleet have brought in fifteen sail of prizes, one of them
a ship bound to New York, laden with warlike stores, among
which are six large mortars, and a quantity of shells.'

AN EPIGRAM.

" How hard is your Congress' exacted conditions! "
Cry tlie gentlemen come with pacific commissions,
Withdrawing our troops, they premise, and our fleet,
And on no other terms will they deign for to treat !
The word Independence, what can they intend in't?
In spite of our efforts you are Independent.
Were we left to ourselves, faith, ere now we had scamper'd ;
But consider, good folks, we are terribly hampered.
True, an army we have— but completely invaded ;
And our fleet to the full is as nicely blockaded ;
Sure the world then can judge, and as readily say,
If it's left at our option to go or to stay ?
Get consent from Estaing, and your chief Washington,
And we need not a prompter to set off and run."

The British army is now arrived at New York from Phila-
delphia ; some little time ago they arrived at Philadelphia from
New York. How finely, says a correspondent, are the charges
sunk. From Philadelphia to New York, to Long Island, to
Mud Island, from action to eeling, from eeling to action. Our
American possessions are not equal to the space between Smith-
field and Highgate. Omne quod exit in — Hum.

It is remarkable, that the hostilities with France commenced
just that day three years on which the first battle of import-
ance happened in America. Tlie battle of Bunker's Hill was
fought on the 17th of June, 1775, and the hostilities with France
commenced on the 17th of June, 1778.'

August 1. — -We hear, from good authority, that iudcpcndcnt
of the cruelties and oppressions of the new States, which have

' Now York .Journal, August 17. '" Same, August 3.

^ New Jersey Gazette, November 18.

1778.] THE FEEXCH TOEATY. 79

alienated the minds of the people from their new systems of
government, and the petty tyrants in possession of tliem, there
are other causes of disaflection, equally powerful ^g^^i^ ^j the
and alarming to the liberties of America. Many ^'™'='' '^''"'y-
of the warmest independents themselves, whose eyes are not
blinded by a share in the power and emoluments of the tyr-
aimy, now confess their apprehensions that their coimtry is sold
to the French king, and that all their boasted struggles for
liberty, Avill end in Avretched submission to French despotism
and Popish superstition, should Great Britain give up her col-
onies.

The solemn ceremony of delivering the turf and twig,' per-
formed by Mr. Deane, Ambassador of the Congress, to Mr.
Gerard, the Plenipotentiary from the court of Paris, the people
in general believe, M-as a transfer of some right, either absolute
or conditional, to the territory of Anaerica, in pxirsuance of
some of the six articles of their treaty, which Congress have
perfidiously concealed from their constituents." This belief

' The ceremony observed at the landing of the French ambassador and Mr.
Silas Deane, has created a good deal of uneasiness in the minds of the spectators.
Immediately on setting foot on shore, Mr. Deane cutting a piece of turf, formally
delivered it to Monsieur Gerard, who received it with great solemnity, applied it
to liis lips and then croxsed himself loith vmch apparent devotion. The delivering
of the turf may be easily construed, it being the well known and ancient symbol
of giving possession of land, and was by the common law absolutely necessary to
all transfers of real property. The receiving and !;issing of it may denote the ac-
ceptance and taking possession of the, gift. JuUus Cfesar, when he invaded
Britain, is said to have made use of a similar ceremony to the same purpose. If
this be considered as the cession of the whole or part of America, in consequence
of the late treaty, the Congress have acted wisely in keeping back from the peo-
ple's view the secret articles which related to it: for we believe that however
fond their constituents may noiu be of their great and good alb/, the King of
France, they are hardly yet so infatuated as to choose Louis for their master. —
Extract of a letter from Philadelphia in JRivington^s Gazette, July 29.

^ A correspondent writes : — It is a maxim generally believed, the truth of which
he has not the least doubt, that the people are the origin of all delegated powers.
If so, he calls in question the propriety of keeping secret certain articles of the
treaty subsisting between the court of France and the States. If it is said to
keep them from the knowledge of the court of Great Britain, he thinks they may
safely be communicated to the several assemblies of the United States at least,
who are the legal representatives of the people, and who, he thinks, have a right
to know them. — Pennsylvania Packet, November 3.

80 DIAET OF THE REVOLUTION. [1778.

sconis founded on voiy good reasons, because this ceremony
was the ancient and almost universal mode of conveying real
estates in England, derived from the customs of the civil law,
which yet prevails in France, and has never been made iise of
on any other occasion ; and the Congress, who must know the
suspicions and anxiety of the people on this matter, and whose
interest it is to remove their fears, have never yet attempted
any other explanation of that ceremony ; but, on the contrary,
have observed a jjrofound secrecy in regard to it, as well as to
the six articles before mentioned ; all which circumstances,
if they do not amount to positive, it must be confessed do to
the strongest presumptive proof, crpial in the scale of credi-
bility, to positive, that the people's belief and fears are justly
founded.'

AtTGUST 6. — Tnis being the day appointed by Congress for
the reception of Sleur Gerard, Minister Plenipotentiary from
Ecco tirni of the ^^^^ Most Christian Majesty, that Minister received
French Minister, audiciice accordingly. In pursuance of the cere-
monial established by Congress, the Honorable Eichard Henry
Lee, Esquire, one of the Delegates from Yirginia, and the
Honorable Samuel Adams, Esquire, one of the Delegates from
Massachusetts Bay, in a coach and six provided by Congress,
waited upon the Minister at his house. In a few minutes, the
Minister and the two delegates entered the coach, Mr. Lee plac-
ing himself at the Minister's left hand on the bade seat, Mr.
Adams occupying the front seat. The Minister's chariot being
behind, received his secretary. The carriages being arrived at
the State House, Philadelphia, the two members of Congress,
placing themselves at tlie Minister's left hand, a little before
one o'clock, introduced him to his chair in the Congress cham-
ber, the President and Congress sitting; the chair was placed
fronting tlie President. The Minister being seated, lie gave
his credentials into the hand of his Secretary, who advanced
and delivered them to the President. The Secretary of Con-
gress then read and translated them, which being done, Mr.
Lee announced the Minister to the President and Congress ; at

' "An American Freeman," in Rivington'a Gazette, August 22.

1778.] THE EECKPTION OF GEEAED. 81

tins time, the President, the Congress, and the Minister rose
togetlier ; he bowed to the President and Congress, they bowed
to him ; whereupon the whole seated themselves. In a mo-
ment tlie Minister arose and made a speech to the Congress,
they sitting. The speech to the Congress being finished, the
Minister sat down, and giving a copy of his speech to his Secre-
tary, he presented it to the President. Tlie President and the
Congress then rose, and the President pi-onounced their answer
to the speech, the Minister standing. Tlie answer being ended,
the whole were again seated, and the President giving a copy
of the answer to the Secretary of the Congress, he presented it
to the Minister. The President, the Congress, and the Minister
then again arose together. The Minister bowed to the Presi-
dent, who retnrnd the salute, and then to the Congress, who
also bowed in return. The Minister, having again bowed to
the President, and received his bow, he withdrew, and was
attended home in the same manner in which he had been con-
ducted to the audience.

"Within the bar of the house, the Congress formed a semi-
circle on each side of the President and the Minister: the
President sitting at one extremity of the circle, at a table upon
a platform elevated two steps, the Minister sitting at the oppo-
site extremity of the circle, in an arm chair, upon the same
level with the Congress. Tlie door of the Congress chamber
being thrown open, below the bar, about two hundred gentle-
men were admitted to the audience, among whom were the
Vice-President of the Supreme Executive Coiyicil of Pennsyl-
vania, the Supreme Executive Council, the Speaker and Mem-
bers of the House of Assembly, several foreigners of distinction,
and officers of the army.

Thus has a new and noble sight been exhibited in this new
world — the representatives of the United States of America,
solemnly giving public audience to a Minister Plenipotentiary
from the most powerful prince in Europe. Four years ago,
such an event, at so near a day, was not in the view even of
imagination : but it is the Almighty who raiseth up ; he hath
stationed America among the powers of the earth, and clothed
her in robes of sovereignty.
Vol. 11.-6

82 DIAET OF THE EEYOLUTION. [1778.

Tlie audience being over, the Congress and tlie Minister, at
a proper hour, repaired to an entertainment by Congress, given
to the Mmister, at which were present, by invitation, several
foreigners of distinction, and gentlemen of public character.
The entertainment was conducted with a decorvim suited to the
occasion, and gave the most perfect satisfaction to the whole
company.'

A COEEESPONDENT iu London says : In the fate of the mer-
cenary Hessians employed against our fellow subjects in Amer-
Heaven with the ^'^^> '^® ^^7 TG&d the disapprobation, and mark
Americans. ^]^q manifest Intervention of Heaven. Of the pri-
vate men who embarked from Hesse Cassel on their sanguinary
exjj edition, not above a fourth part are in a state of militation ;
tlie rest are either killed, wounded, or prisoners. Of the com-
manders, their fate is not less exemplary; General De Heister
died a few days since, being returned to engage fresh mercen-
aries ; Colonel Eahl killed at Trenton, Colonel Donop killed
in the attack of the fort on Mud Island, General Knypliausen
slightly wounded at the attack of Germantown — sic periunt
inimici libertatis.

" The supremacy of Parliament," and " unconditional sub-
mission," two favorite terms adopted by the court, the ministry,
and the legislature, have produced wonderful efiects : the total
separation of America from the British empire, and the forma-
tion of a new monarchy of Independent States — ^the loss of
above thirty millions of money — the destruction of thirty thou-
sand troops, and the most shameful disgrace to the English
anns that was ever incurred since the foundation of the em-
pire. It is time to discard and disgrace Avords which have
produced such horrid consequences, and adopt others more
conformable to common sense to constitutional liberty, and to
humanity.

A gentlemen just returned from Paris informs us that Dr.
Franklin has shaken off entirely the mechanical rust, and com-
menced the complete courtier. Eeing lately in the gardens of

' New Tork Journal, AuKust 24.

177S.] CADWAXLADEE COLDEN. 83

Versailles, sliovring the Queen some electrical experiment, she
asked him, in a fit of raillery, if he did not dread the fate of
Prometheus, who was so severely served for steal-

„ „ ' -r o -t» 1 -HI-' Doctor Franklin.

mg fire from Heaven? "les, please yonr Maj-
jesty," (replied old Franklin, with infinite gallantry,) " if I did
not behold a pair of eyes this moment which have stolen infi-
nitely more fire from Jove than ever I did, pass nnpimished,
though they do more mischief in a week than I have done in
all my experiments." '

August 17. — ^The following oath is part of an act lately
passed by the New York Congress at the Fishkills, which is to
be taken by every subject, agreeable to the new uewoathot
constitution established by the Congress : — " I A. Allegiance.
B. do solemnly, and without any mental reservation whatever,
swear and call God to witness, (or, if the people called Quak-
ers, affirm,) that I believe and aclcnowledge the State of ISTew
York to be of right a free and independent State, and that
no authority or power can of right be executed in or over the
said State, but what is, or shall be granted by, or derived from
the people thereof; and further, that as a good subject of the
said free and independent State of New Yoi-k, I will,' to the
best of my knowledge and ability, faithfully do my duty, and
as I shall keep or disregard this oath, so help and deal with
me Almighty God."

The first person who was cited before the commissioners to
take the oath, was Cadwallader Golden, Esq., of Coldenham,
in Ulster county, New York, and eldest son of the cadwaiiadcr
late lieutenant-governor of that province. This coiden.
gentleman showed an iinshaken attachment to his sovereign
and the constitution, from the first of the present rebellion.
He had been a prisoner among the rebels for above two years,
great part of the time closely confined in a common jail, or on
board a sloop in the Hudson Kiver, (in company Avith many
other loyal sufferers,) for no other cause than avowing his sen-
timents with candor, modesty, and firmness, against independ-

ire Gazette, December 22.

84: DIARY OF THE EEVOLUTION. [1778.

ency. Determined to adhere to the good old constitution under
-which he and his fellow subjects enjoyed so much happiness, he
persevered calmly, though resolutely, to oppose each innova-
tion, for which he was ignominiously treated from time to time,
and suffered every wanton indignity that malice could invent.
When desired to take the above oath, he nobly refused it, re-
turning a decent, spirited answer, in writing, which does him
great honor; whereupon he was ordered to depart, and go
within the British lines. On Monday last he arrived at K'ew
York in a flag of truce sloop, leaving behind him his wife, and
a numerous family of children, to the insults, and a large estate
to the depredations of a blind, infatiiated people.'

August 20. — A GENTLmiAx who went on board the French
fleet at Sandy Hook, gives the following account of their prin-
cipal transactions during the time he was on board :

On the 30th of July the fleet arrived ofl", and anchored be-
fore the light-house, at the entrance of the harbor of Newport,
Actions nf the "^ Rhode Islaud, except two frigates, that Avere
French Fleet, ordered to tlic cast end of the island, in order to
prevent any vessels from getting out through Seconnet pas-
sage. On the frigates' arrival there, the English set fire to one
twenty-gun ship and two galleys, wliich lay in that passage.
The next morning one ship of fifty guns was sent i;p the west
side of Conanicut Island, and after exchanging a few shots with
the battery, the English thought proper to evacuate that island,
after blowing up their fortifications, which were said to be
guarded by about fifteen hundred men ; they likewise blew \ip
some of their outworks on Ehode Island, and burnt some
dwelling-houses. Tlie same day we sent xip the west passage,
one ship of sixty-four guns. The Aveather for the several fol-
lowing days was very foggy, which gave our fifty-gun ship an
advantage of passing, without being seen, around the north end
of Conanicut, and anchoring between a small bay or cove, on
the west side of Rhode Island, (in which lay three British frig-
ates,) and the harbor of Newport. On the fog's clearing

' New York Gazette, August 11.

1778.] THE FRENCH FLEET. 85

away, the people, finding tlie frigates could not return to j^ew-
port, immediately left them after setting them on fire.

On the 8th of August, a signal was made for the fleet to
weigh anchor and get in a line, which was done, and about
three o'clock in the afternoon, we stood in for the harbor of
Newjjort, under topsails lowered down. The Admiral being
the first of the line, as soon as he came within about two miles,
the battery on Brentou's ISTeck began a brisk cannonade on the
Languedoc, which was not retm'ned till she came within about
three-quarters of a mile of the battery, when she began such a
cannonade as I could not have conceived to have been possible
from on board one ship, the consequence of which was, the
battery was silenced in two or three broadsides, and the fleet
passed in through the fire of the cannon from Fort Island, and
two forts on the north end of the town of Newport, and an-
chored between Gold Island and Conanicut, without receiving
any damage. On the ninth, a fleet of thirty-four sail of ships
appeared ofl^ the harbor, which, we were informed, were a fleet
from New York, commanded by Lord Howe ; the wind being
to the southward, we could not get out of the harbor. On the
tenth, in the morning, the wind came round to the northward ;
a signal was made for the fleet to cut their cables, which was
immediately done, and all came to sail except the frigates,
which were all in Seconnet passage. On om- coming to sea,
the wind became very small. The enemy appeared to have
been much alarmed on seeing our fleet under sail, as they all
either cut or slipped their cables, cut many of their boats from
then* sterns, and hove many things overboard, in order to
lighten their ships. On the 11th, in the morning, we found
them at a much greater distance than they were the night be-
fore, biit the wind springing up, we continued the chase. The
British fleet now bearing about south-east by east, the wind at
north-east, they hauled close upon a wind, but finding we came
up with them, they altered their course from east south-east to
south-east and to the southward, and from that to south-west,
but all without effect, as we could outsail them very easily ;
the wind still contmuing to blow a very fresh gale, and con-
stantly increasing. At about five o'clock in the afternoon,

86 DIAEY OF THE KEVOLUTIOX. [1778.

both fleets drew in a line. Tlie English fleet now consisted of
only twenty-four sail, and ours of twelve. Our headmost ship
in the line got up abreast with the stermnost of the English,
biit the sea running so high, we could not engage ; we intended
to have continued along side of them till the wind abated,
but about sunsetting, a very heavy gale coming on, we were
obliged to bring to, which we did with our heads to the south-
ward; the English then hauled to the north-west, and the
night coming on, we lost sight of them. On the 12th, at day-
light, we discovered the Languedoc about a league distant,
without a mast standing, and at about eight o'clock saw the
Marseilles without a foremast or bowsprit. The gale con-
tinued extremely hard all this day and night following, and
the greater part of the tliirteenth, in the afternoon of which
it abated. We then made sail and stood in about north-
west, under what sail we could carry. In the morning of the
lilth, at daylight, saw the Languedoc at about two leagues
distance, which, when we came up with her, informed us she
had been attacked the night before, by a ship of fifty guns, but
had obliged her to sheer ofl^, although she had neither mast nor
rudder. At about nine o'clock discovered the Marseilles, who
had been attacked early in the morning by a sixty gun ship,
and one other coming down on her, but our fleet coming in
sight, they qi:itted her. In the afternoon we took the Tliunder
bomb ; and in the morning of the fifteenth, saw the Senegal
sloop of war, of sixteen guns, commanded by Captain Inglis,
which we very soon came up with, and made a prize of. Tlie
fleet then anchored in latitude thirty-nine, in about forty fath-
oms water, where we lay till we got up jury masts on board
the Languedoc and Marseilles. The Cesar, of seventy-foiir
guns, had not joined the fleet since the gale on the seventeenth.
In the evening we weighed anchor and came to sail, and ar-
rived off Khode Island this afternoon."

August 22. — A correspondent in Pliiladelpliia offers the
following hint, with the hope that it will be improved upon : —

' New York Journal, September 7.

17T8.] d'estaing at boston. 87

" I have labored under many difficulties, for my princix^les are
sucli, that I would not willingly purchase any article (except
in absolute necessity) of a Tory. To be asking ^^^^^ ^^^.^^^
always who are Whigs who have to sell, is troub- ""^ '^°"'"-
lesome, and, I am sorry to say, uncertain. I wish the same
mark were piit upon the houses of our well-known enemies, as
the Turks use to designate the residences of liars, that is, by
painting them black. This might be done with a very small
expense, and I am iirmly convinced that every well-wisher to
his country would willingly contribute towards paying the ex-
pense. The lower story blackened might be sufficient." '

This suggestion, says another writer, does well enough as
far as it goes, but we would propose a still more prominent
designation of a Tory, that is, let the right side of the face and
the i-ight hand be dyed black, and if that don't answer, it will
not be any great loss if the whole body be set to dying.''

August 23. — ^The French fleet returned to Khode Island on
Thursday last, (20th,) but had suftered so considerably in the
late stomi, together with some slicrht eno-a^ement „ ^ x-i . .

' ~ o o o i? rencQ r leet go to

with the enemy, that they judged it necessary to Boston,
retire in order to refit ; in consequence of which resolution, the
whole fleet sailed for Boston yesterday. General Sullivan,
with the other general officers, were of opinion that they had
not suftered to such a degree but that they were capable of
sufficiently co-operating with the Americans in the reduction of
Newport, without danger to the fleet ; consequently the gen-
eral, in the name of all the general officers of his army, protested
against the count's withdrawing with his fleet and army at this
critical juncture, as this expedition would not have been under-
taken at this time, had it not been for the assurance he had given
of assisting the American army to the utmost of his power.''

August 29. — ^Testeedat, the fleet of his Most Christian
Majesty, commanded by Admii-al Count D'Estaing, arrived

Pennsylvania Packet. ' Clift's Diary.

New York Gazette, September 21.

88 DI.VKY OF THE EEVOLUTIOK. [1778.

safe in Nantasket Eoad, and this morning three of his frigates
anchored oiF Boston. The fleet has received considerable dam-
D'Estain- at ^S^ ^^ *^^ ^^^^ storm ; the count's ship (the Lan-
Boston. guedoc, of ninety guns) is particularly much dam-
aged, her masts and bowsprits being carried away, and her
rudder injured. In this condition she was attacked by a Brit-
ish ship of fifty guns, when, to her mortification, she coiild
bring but five or six of her guns to boar upon the enemy.
After firing four hours upon the Languedoc, the British man-
of-war left her, having made very little addition to the damage
she sustained in the storm, and killed only one man and wound-
ed two or three. The damaged ships are repairing with the
utmost expedition, and in all probability will soon be in a con-
dition to give the dastardly Britons a drubbing, should they
have the eflVontery to attempt to stand before them.

Tliis afternoon the Count D'Estaing, with his suite, came np
to Boston in his barge. He was saluted on his landing by the
cannon of the American fortresses and ships in the harbor, and
all respects were paid him that time and circumstances would
allow. The count and his oificers. General Heath, the Mar-
quis de la Fayette, the principal officers of the American ma-
rine, and other gentlemen, dined with General Hancock.'

SmcE the departure of the French fleet from Rhode Island,
the operations of the Americans against the enemy's strong-

\ction on holds in that quarter have been carried on Avith
Ehodo Island, gj-gat vigor ; aud last night it was unanimously de-
tennincd by the general ofiicers in council to change the posi-
tion of the army from the advanced batteries before the ene-
my's lines, and to take post on Butt's Hill, at the north end of
the island, till the return of the fleet. This was effected before
two o'clock this morning, with the gi-catest order, the picket,
commanded by Colonel Wigglesworth, remaining on Quaker
Hill, a mile in front of the main body, and Livingston's and
Lauren's corps advanced on the east and west roads, a mile be-
yond the picket. At seven o'clock, the advanced corps were

■ New Hampshire Gazette, September 8.

1778.] ACTION ON KHODE ISLAND. 89

attacked by the enemy, and after returning the fire briskly, re-
tired skirmisliing to the picket on Quaker Hill. Here the
whole made a stand, and were reinforced on the left by a regi-
ment from Glover's brigade, commanded by Lieutenant-Colonel
Sprout, and on the right by a regiment from Yarnum's bri-
gade, commanded by Lieuteuant-Colouel Livingston. The ac-
tion now became severe ; the Americans were well posted, and
twice repulsed the enemy on their left, but they being strongly
reinforced, and a general action not intended on this ground,
the advanced corps were ordered to retire, which they did with
the greatest order and regularity, having five killed and sixteen
wounded on the left, and bringing ofl:' a lieutenant of grena-
diers and seven privates prisoners. Tlie enemy, about nine in
the morning, began a cannonade, which was returned with
great spirit, and skirmishing continued between the advanced
parties until near ten, when their two ships of war and some
small armed vessels, having got up the river on the right flank
of the Americans, the enemy bent most of their force that way,
and endeavored to turn their right under cover of their ships.
Tliey were twice driven back in much confusion, when a third
eSbrt was made with greater numbers. General Sullivan now
ordered the right to be reinforced, and a sharp conflict of near
an hour succeeded, in which the artiller}^ of both armies played
briskly from the hills. The enemy were at length routed, and
fled in great confusion to a hill where they had camion and
works to cover them, leaving their dead and wounded on the
field. We took about sixty prisoners. Tlie action must have
ended in the ruin of the British army, had not the redoubts on
the hill covered them from a close pursuit. Immediately after
the repulse of the enemy on the right, they appeared advanc-
ing on the left, in consequence of which, Glover's brigade and
General Tyler's militia, supported by Titcomb's brigade, were
ordered to advance and form in a cross road within half a mile
of the enemy. They accordingly took post, and a cannonade,
with skirmishing, ensued, and continued till dark. It was not
judged advisable to attack them in their works, as the Ameri-
cans, inferior in number to the enemy, were much fatigued,
and had been without provision or refreshment of any kind for
thirty-six hours.

90 DIAEY OF THE EEVOLUTION. [1778.

Too much praise cannot be given to the ofEcers and soldiers
in general for their exemplary bravery. The -^vhole of tlie
troops that were engaged received the thanks of the general in
orders. The Americans killed, wonnded, and missing, are two
hundred and eleven ; about sixty supposed to be killed. Tlie
enemy's loss is computed at three hundred killed and wounded,
of which number forty or fifty of the latter fell into our hands,
and about one hundred and sixty were left dead on the field.

Mr. "Walker, of Massachusetts Bay, Avho acted as brigade
major, is among our slain. Major Sherburne, of the same State,
unfortunately lost his leg by a cannon ball. Young Mr. Hen-
ley, of Boston, is M'ounded in his wi-ist and through the body.
Lieutenant-Colonel William Livingston received two contusions
on his breast, from balls whose force was too far spent to pene-
trate his body, and had his horse killed under him by a cannon
shot. There are three or four more ofiicers of Colonel Jackson's
regiment slightly wounded. The whole of his corps distin-
guished themselves."

' New York Journal, September 14. A ministerial paper, printed in Newport,
of tlie 3d of September, gij-es the following account of this action : Last Satur-
day morning it being discovered that the rebels had dismantled their redoubts op-
posite to our Unes, Sir Robert Pigot gave orders for the grenadiers and light in-
fantry, with the Ilessian chasseurs, to advance, which they did with their usual
alacrity, being supported by the 22d, 43d, Brown's and Fanning's regiments, with
the regiment De Huyne and two regiments of Anspach. It was discovered as
they advanced that the rebels had been for several days removing their stores and
heavy cannon to the north end of the island. The troops met with little opposi-
tion till they had advanced some miles, when they were fired upon from behind
stone walls by large parties of the rebels posted to annoy them. But these ob-
stacles were soon removed by the ardor of the troops, who rushed on with such
impetuosity, that the rebels were soon obliged to betake themselves to their last
post, which was upon Windmill Hill, so strongly fortified and so commanding a
spot, that Brigadier-General Smith thought it most prudent to check the progress
of the troops, (who had been already fatigued by so long a march,) and to take
post on Quaker Hill. The troops remained in this situation all the next day, in
hopes the rebels would feel hold enough to renew the attack, which they, how-
ever, declined, and took themselves off on Sunday night, leaving their barracks
in good order.

The loss of the rebels on this occasion is supposed to be between three and
four hundred killed and wounded.

Thus ended the third expedition to Rhode Island, so greatly to the honor of

1778.] EXPEDITION TO RHODE ISLAND. 91

ArorsT 30. — ^This morning the American army pitclied
tlieii" tents on the front of Butt's Hill, on Rhode Island, when
a heavy cannonade commenced, and has continued Americans
through the whole day. At seven this evening a island.
picket was posted in advance of the first line, and a chain of
sentinels formed from the east to the west river. In conse-
quence of authentic intelligence received, that Lord Howe,
with his fleet, had sailed from Sandy Hook, and that from the
best information one hundred and fifty sail of transports Avere
in the "Western Sound, with five thousand troops, bound to
Newjiort, a council was called, who were unanimously of opin-
ion, (considering the situation of the army, the absence of the
fleet, and the momentary expectation of the enemy's receiving
a strong reinforcement of troops, with a number of ships,) that
the island should be evacuated, which has been completed in
perfect order and safety, not leaving behind the smallest article
of provision, camp equipage, or military stores."

EXPEDITION TO RHODE ISLAND.

From Lewis, Monsieur Gerard came

To Congress in this town, sir,
They bow'J to him, and he to them,

And then they all sat down, sir.

Begar, said Monsieur, one grand coup,

You shall bientot behold, sir ; ■ •

This was believ'd as gospel true,

And Jonathan felt bold, sir.

So Yankee Doodle did forget

The sound of British drum, sir,
How oft it made him quake and sweat.

In spite of Yankee rum, sir.

Mr. Sullivan, that there is no doubt he will be enrolled among the heroes of New
England.

Such was the bravery of the troops engaged, British, Hessians, and Anspach ,
that they appeared to vie with each other in their exertions against the enemy. —
RivingtorC s Royal Gazette, September 16.

' This evacuation was completed the same evening, and the next morning at
seven o'clock the British fleet appeared off Point Judith. — New Hampshire Garxtte,
September 15.

92 DIAEY OF THE EEVOLTJTION. [1778.

He took his wallet on his back,

His rifle on his shoulder,
And veow'd Rhode Island to attack,

Before he was much older.

In dread array their tatter'd crew,

Advanc'd with colors spread, sir,
Their fifes played Yankee doodle, doo,

King Hancock at their head, sir.

What numbers bravely cross'd the seas,

I cannot well determine,
A Bwarm of rebels and of fleas,

And every other vermin.

Their mighty hearts might shrink they tho't,

For all flesh only grass is,
A plenteous store they therefore brought,

Of whiskey and molasses.

They swore they'd make bold Pigot squeak,'

So did their good ally, sir,
And take him pris'ner in a week.

But that was all my eye, sir.

As Jonathan so much desir'd

To shine in martial story,
D'Estaing with politesse retir'd,

To leave him all the glory.

He left him what was better yet

At least it was more use, sir.
He left him for a quick retreat,

A very good excuse, sir.

To stay, unless he rul'd the sea.

He thought would not be right, sir,
And Continental troops, said he.

On islands should not fight, sir.

Another cause with these combined,

To throw him in the dumps, sir,
For Clinton's name alarmed his mind.

And made him stir his stumps, sir.^

' Sir Robert Pigot commanded the British forces on Rhode Island.
' Rivington's Gazette, October 3.

CHAPTER III.

September 1. — The monsieiirs and the rebels are likely to
come to blows on account of the late movements in Ehode
Island. When the Yankees heard of the intended D.j;5tai„<, ^^^
co-operation of the French fleet with Sullivan, suiiivan.
they all rushed down to Rhode Island, with King Hancock,
that insuflferable piece of bravery, at their head. It was given
out that D'Estaing would make his preparations to swallow
the British on Sunday, and that he would swallow them on the
following day. (A precedent for such a destruction was found
by every Presbyterian parson on a previous Lord's day, and
all their flocks veowed it would be jest so.) But it so happened
the gallant Howe called the Frenchman out to battle, and he
left his " faithful allies," (with nothing bi^t faith to help them,)
to return as soon as he had drubbed the British fleet.

He returned to Rhode Island, dismantled and dismayed,
having in his excursion not only had the British fleet agarast
him, but the wrath of Heaven, and soon after, against the " ur-
gent solicitations of the rebel commander (Mr. Sullivan) and
his oflicers, he again set sail for Boston, to refit his scows, and
recover his equanimity. This last act is the cause of the pres-
ent diffici;lties. The rebels say the fleet did not need repairs,
and the monsieurs say, " Be gar we will feet." But this is not
all : the renowned (La) Fayette has challenged Mr. Sullivan for
something he said in general orders, and we are hourly expect-
ing to hear of death among the rebels.'

' Letter of Joshua Longstreet, September 3. Rivington, under the head of
Intelligence Extraordinary, says :— "Our correspondent at Boston informs us that
the renowned Don Quixotto, Drawcansiro de I'ayetto, being highly oifended at
General Sullivan's refusing his challenge, rode post, in six hours, to Congress, in

94: DIAEY OF THE EETOLUTION'. [1778.

Septembee 16. — Eaelt tliis morning, Lieutenant-Colonel
Simcoe, with the Queen's Eangers, Lieutenant-Colonel Enime-
British Excursion rick,- with the chasseurs, and a detachment of the
New York. ' sccoud battalion of General Do Laiicey's brigade,
Lieutenant-Colonel Tarleton, with the dragoons of the legion,
and one troop of Colonel Emmerick's, and the Hessian Jagers,
moved from their resj)ective encampments near King's Bridge.
Lieutenant-Colonels Simcoe and Emmerick marched undis-
covered between two rebel pickets, and got one mile and a
half in the rear of a body of two hundred and thirty select Vir-
ginia riflemen, strongly posted in front on Babeoek's Heights,
under the command of Colonel Gist. Lieutenant-Colonel Tarle-
ton marched to Colonel Philip's farm. About six in the
morning, Lieutenant-Colonel Emmerick, with the detachment
of De Lancey's, attacked the rebels, and though discovered
when going to attack, killed three on the spot, wounded sev-

order to fight every indiTidual of that august assembly. A challenge was accord-
ingly delivered to each member, but as none of these gentlemen had ever worn a
sword, and as those who receive a challenge have the right to choose their weapon,
there were warm debates and great diversity of opinions concerning the instru-
ment of death most proper to be used ; some declared for needles, some for bod-
kins, some for ploughshares, some for gray goose quills, and some for clyster
pipes; after many solemn debates, it was at length resolved to submit the weapon
to the determination of the French ambassador. Three members of Congress
were immediately deputed to wait on Monsieur Gerard ; they approached his Ex-
cellency with three times three bows, to which his Excellency returned twelve ;
the deputies determined not to be outdone by French politeness, bowed thirteen
times, the exact number of the United States, and then proceeded to business.
Monsieur Gerard requested a moment for consideration ; the Marquis meanwhile
amused himself before the glass, taking snuif, and now and then cutting a little
caper ; the deputies in silent expectation continued standing, for the representative
of the Grand Monarque thought it was inconsistent with his dignity to ofl'or them
chairs. Monsieur Gerard at last broke silence by declaring that as the persons
challenged had an undoubted right by the laws of chivalry to choose their weapon,
the Marquis must fight the Yankees in their own way.

"Our young hero, violently oifended with such indignity, and resolutely
determined to support the honor of his king by some signal exploit, set out
instantly for Boston, and on the road, in imitation of the Siianish knight, res-
olutely encountered a flock of sheep and a windmill. What hmbs were lost in this
engagement, our correspondent does not mention, but the young Quixote swears,
par bleu, that Franklin, the Congress, their Gcncr.als, &c., are all a pack of jean
f res."— JiU'inr/loti's Royal Oaxctle, October 21.

\

1778.] DANIEL HOKSMAXDEN. 95

eral, and took thirty -five prisoners, among Avliich arc three offi-
cers. Tlie rehels were so briskly charged, that many of them
forgot their arms, &c., and fled with the utmost precipitation ;
their colonel in particular, scampering off without his breeches
or boots, and 'tis thought he was wounded in his flight. At
the same time, Lieutenant-Colonel Tarleton, with the dragoons,
charged a body of rebels posted on Yalentine's Hill, but as the
enemy were near a very thick wood, they took shelter where
the horse could not possibly act, which prevented their sus-
taining any other loss than the capture of a few of their num-
ber. Tlie only loss sustained by his Majesty's troops in both
attacks, was one horse of Emmerich's killed.'

By accounts from Fort Clinton, on Hudson Eiver, we learn
that the magistracy of the State of New York send their dis-
affected iidiabitants into that place, from whence

, . 1 . 1 ■, n n William Smith.

they are transmitted in vessels, under a nag ot truce,
to New York city. These persons are discriminated by theii*
refusal to make attestations of their allegiance to the State, and
to renounce the tyrant of Britam. It appears that the highest
characters are not winked at. Tlie Honorable "William Smith,
Esq., formerly of the royal council under the former govern-
ment, and author of the History of New York, &c., forced out
of his inglorious neutrality, has been lately brought to the test,
and refusing the oatli, was about four or five weeks since de-
livered to the enemy through this channel. His Majesty of
Britain will be difficulted to provide for his faithful a;dherents,
and may think in earnest of selling Hanover and his other Ger-
man dominions to raise a fund equal to their expectations.
Where, then, Avill such as Mr. Smith, who are justly despised
both by royalists and Amrricans, find shelter and relief P

SEPTEinjEB 28. — Wednesday last, departed this life at Flat-
bush, on Long Island, in the SStli year of his age, the Honor-
able Daniel Ilorsmanden, Esq., President of his Majesty's
Council, and Chief Justice of New York. His remains were

' Gaine's Mercury, September 21. ^ Pennsylvania Packet, September 17.

96 DIAKY OF THE KEVOLUTION. [1778.

decently interred in Trinity cliurcli-yard the Friday following.
He was a native of Great Britain, but has resided in America
above fifty years.'

The British commander at Kcw York having information

that seven hundred rebel militia were cantoned in the neigh-

skirmish near horhood of liackeusack, New Jersey, a little after

Tappan. eleven o'clock last night, ordered the troops to
march. Tlie second battalion of light infantry led the column,
supported by the 2d regiment of grenadiers, with the 33d
and 64:th regiments, these commanded by Major-General Gray.
Between one and two this morning they arrived at the rebel
cantonments ; Major Straubenzee had been detached with six
companies of the same battalion of light infantry ; the other six
under the Honorable Major Maitland, kept the road, by which
manosuvres the enemy's patrol, consisting of a sergeant and
about a dozen men, was entirely cut oif. Major Straubenzee
moved on with the 71st light company, and in a small village
surprised a party of Virginia cavalry, styled Mrs. Washing-
ton's Guards, consisting of more than one hundred, commanded
by Lieutenant-Colonel Baylor, who, with Major McLeod and
two other officers, upon forcing the door of a house, attempted
to get up a large Dutch chimney ; the two former were mor-
tally wounded, the third killed, and the fourth made prisoner.
Upon entering the house, one of the rebel officers, demanding
the name of the corps which had attacked them, was answered,
" The British light infantry," on which he exclaimed, " Then
we shall all be cut off."

From lience a part of Sir James Baird's company was de-
tached to a barn where sixteen privates were lodged, Mdio, dis-
charging ten or twelve pistols, and striking at the troops sans
effct with their broadswords, nine of them were instantly
bayoneted, and seven received quarter. Major Maitland's
force coming up at that time, attacked the remainder of the
rebel detachment, lodged in several other barns, with such
alertness as prevented all but three privates from making their

' New York Gazette, September 28.

177S.] THE COMIIISSIONEES' YALEDICTOKY. 97

escape. Tlie troops lay on theii- arms till daybreak, wlicn
moving forward, the light infantry fell in with a volunteer
company of militia in a very thick wood and swamp ; these
gave one fire, which the 40th company, commanded by Cap-
tain Montgomery, returned and drove them oif, leaving six
dead, but afterwards scampering across a road in front of a
company of our grenadiers, three more were killed by them.
The light infantry in pursuing them up to Tajjpan, where they
were entirely dispersed, took five prisoners, all of them wound-
ed. The whole loss of the British, on this occasion, was one
private of second battalion light infantry killed.'

AsioifG the rebel prisoners lately taken in jSTow Jersey, and
brought to !Rew York, is a Major Yan Buren, from Albany, who
is well known by many respectable refugees in the
city for his activity in apprehending and impris- "'"'
oning the loyalists. He was master of the ceremony at the dec-
laration of independence in Albany ; at the close of that day,
he conducted, with great pomp, the burning of the king's arms,
formerly deposited as an ornament in the Coiirt Ilall, and ex-
pressed monstrous indignity on that occasion, against the king
and his friends ; in short, he has been instrumental to many
acts of tyranny and oppression to the king's friends. As a re-
ward for his meritorious deeds, to encourage the spirit of re-
bellion, and to discourage that of loyalty, and on the j^rinciple
to return good for evil, perhajDS some pretended friend to gov-
ernment may intercede for his release.''

October 3. — Tbh contemptible figure which the British
king and ministry have cut in the present war cannot be bet-
ter shown than in the valedictory manifesto and ^,jg commission-
proclamation which has been published to-day at ers-vakdictory.
ISTew York, by Carlisle, Clinton, and Eden. Those gentlemen
seem to consider their master's commission as a sort of a pass
to go a begging with ; for if any thing can justly be called
begging, this last performance of theirs deserves that name.

Eivington's Royal Gazette, October 3. ' New York Gazette, October i
Vol. II.— t

98 DIAEY OF THE EETOLUTIOX. [1778.

It is in the true stylo of " God bless your honors, bestow your
charity for the Lord's sake." Poor devils ! why don't they get
home and mind their hardware and broadcloth, and not pester
us with scribbling letters and petitionary proclamations.

But these gentlemen have another business in hand besides
begging, and that is lying. Last winter their newspapers were
stuffed with every falsehood they could invent respecting the
friendly and pacific disposition of France towards Britain; and
we were told a thousand times over by the ministry and Gen-
eral Howe that France would give us no assistance. But as the
lie of that day is over, and France has actually joined us, those
same mean and pitiful mortals have changed their note, and
are now as busy in abusing France as they before were in cry-
ing her up and abusing us. But the poor devils will abuse
anybody now their hand is in, and it is hoped the good people
of France and America will consider them as men out of then"
senses, and treat them accordingly.'

The conduct of the British commissioners since their ar-
rival on this continent, has been such as deserves the highest
The encomiums from every friend of truth, virtue, and

tuo American's, humanity, and the contrast that appears in their
conduct compared with the illiberal, indecent, and absurd re-
solves and acts of Congress, must convince even the rebels that
their rulers are a set of men as destitute of huraauity and truth
as they are of dignity of character; and that the low sphere of
life they formerly moved in, is that only in which they could
be of use to society. The generous terms offered to the re-
volted colonies upon the arrival of the British commissioners
at Philadelphia, are such, they observe, as need only be

' Pennsylvania Packet, October 15. The appeals of the commissioners prov-
ing ineffectual, they changed their conduct and denounced hostiUty and destruc-
tion, in their most terrific forms, to tliose who had rejected conciliation and
friendship. In the proclamation of October Sd, they warned the people of the
total and material change which was to take place iu the future conduct of hos-
tilities, should they still persevere in their obstinacy ; and more especially as that
was said to be founded upon the pretended alliance with France. The Americans
were^irtually threatened with all the extremes of war, and to have their country
desolated.— (7o)-(/oK, ii. 393.

1778.] THE BEITISn COMinSSIONEES. 99

Icnown to be approved of, and the magnanimous conduct of
Great Britain could never be placed in a clearer point of view.
Tlie Congress surely cannot be serious Tvhen they imagine that
a union with Great Britain on such terms could not be advan-
tageous to them ; for were they in full possession of independ-
ence, and at peace with all the world, the protection and as-
sistance of Great Britain would be of more consequence to
America than any mercenary alliance with a foreign court.

The Congress, in their last manifesto, with all the impu-
dence peculiar to men raised to stations above what they either
deserved or could expect, liave endeavored to asperse the char-
acter of the British army with charges equally illiberal and
false. Had the British troops proceeded in the manner they
describe, and carried fire and sword before them, it is prob-
able that Congress would not at this time dictate to the conti-
nent of America ; and perhaps the subjugated colonies would
have considered the proceeding as just and useful ; just in as
far as it was necessary to put a stop to rebellion, and useful in
diminishing a contest that now subsists. The offers of his Maj-
esty's commissioners were generous without lessening the dig-
nity of the kingdom they represented, condescending without
servihty, and were mutually advantageous to both parties. It
was not the prowess of the Americans, their French alliance,
nor their resources, that extorted such offers from the mother
country'. Xo doubt the interest of the nation coincided with
the magnanimity of Britons in holding forth such terms. But
from a kingdom arrived at that pitch of glory, riches, and
strength, and whose resources are so inexhaustible, it would
be absurd to suppose it proceeded from any motive of fear or
distrust. K"otwithstanding that luxury is the natural concomi-
tant of wealth and riches, the troops of Britain are not ener-
vated ; her soldiers and seamen as gallant and numerous as
a nation that spreads her canvas on ten thousand ships, and
covers the ocean with fleets fraught with her riches, can scarce
be supposed to cringe to a Pandemonium that would bow
their heads to the representatives of a Machiavelian court.
The commissioners of Great Britain have now left the sword
to determine the fate of America, and there is little room to

100 DIAET OF THE KEVOLUTION. [1778.

doubt wliich side will be successful. It cannot be supposed
that tbe war will be conducted on the mild principles that
have already influenced the conduct of the English. Tlie Con-
gress alone must be accountable for the event. Tlie colonies
are British, and her troops must keep or conquer them. If
fire and sword is to be the ultimate means used to recover our
colonies, when the milder medium of reconciliation has been re-
jected, it will at last convince the Americans that what they call
tlie natural rights of mankind, are in some cases detrimental to
their political rights ; and, in a civilized state, often diametrical-
ly opposite. This continent does not belong to the Americans ;
it is a part of the British empire, and cannot bo separated
without the violation of the most just and dear ties of society.'

OcTOEEE 17. — ^The British, at New York, have embarked

ten full regiments, and the vessels have fell down with them

,> .: .,. to the Hook. "We have information by deserters

Motions of tno </

British Army. ^|^jg ^^j ^]^g^^ ^j^q enemy have evacuated Paulus
Hook and Hoobuck; if so, they have no fort left in Jersey.
They were also evacuating Fort "Washington and Fort Inde-
pendence ; their other works without King's Bridge tliej^ had
abandoned some days ago. "We observed them moving oil'
from their encampment nearest us on Staten Island this morn-
ing, whether with intent to leave the island, or settle down
on some other part of it, is yet uncertain."

The tlieatre being open last evening, the Marquis do La
Fayette being in company with his Excellency the President
Anecdote of ^^ Cougrcss, askcd hiui to accompany him to tlie
LaFayetto play. The President politely excusing himself,
the marquis pressed him to go. The President then informed
the marquis that Congress having that day passed a resolution,
recommending to the several States to enact laws for the sup-
pression of theatrical amusements, he could not possibly do
himself the honor of waiting upon him to the play. "Ah ! "

' " Philarethcs," in Eivington's Koyal Gazette, December P.
' Now Jersey Gazette, October 21.

lYTS.] AN UOXEST DELEGATE. 101

replied the marquis, "have Congress passed such a resolution?
then I -will not go to the play." '

October 26. — This day, at Boston, a largo company of
gentlemen and ladies dined on board the Languedoc, at the
invitation of the Count D'Estaing. The eutertain-

1.111 *• n r^ 1 n'Estaing's Ball.

ment was highly elegant. A picture oi Greueral
"Washington, at full length, lately presented to the count by
General Hancock, was placed in the centre of the upper side
of the room, the frame of which was covered with laurels.^

OcTOBEK 27. — By letters from Philadelphia, we learn that
on the receipt of the last manifesto from the English commis-
sioners, one of the Congress had the resolution to make the
following short speech :

"I have listened to this manifesto with great attention, and
I am not asluuned to acknowledge that it breathes a spirit of
candor and resolution by which I am considerably Eivington's
influenced. JSTo man in this august assembly will Extmoi'di'aar'y.
dare to express a doubt of my sincere attachment to the true
interest of my country. I am convinced that the interest of
America is inseparable from that of Biitain, and that our
alliance with France is unnatural, unprofitable, absurd. I
therefore move, that this phantom of independence may be
given up." He had scarcely uttered the words before the
President sent a message to fetch the Polish count, Pulaski,
who liappened to be exercising part of his legion in the court-
yard below. The count flew to the chamber where the Con-
gress sat, and with his sabre, in an instant severed from his
body the head of this honest delegate. Tlie head was ordered

' Ke\T York Journal, Xorembcr 2. On the ICth of October, the Congress
passed the following resolve: — AVhereas frequenting play-houses and theatrical
entertainments has a fatal tendency to divert the minds of the people from a
due attention to the means necessary for the defence of their country and pres-
ervation of their liberties.

Jicsolved, — That any person holding an office under the United States, who
Bhall act, promote, encourage or attend such play, shall be deemed unworthy to
hold such office, and shall be accordingly dismissed. — Journals of Congress.

^ New York Journal, Xoveniber Ui.

102 DIAEY OF THE EEVOLUTION. [1T78.

by tlie Congress to be fixed on the top of the liberty pole of
Philadelphia, as a perpetual monument of the freedom of
debate in the Continental Congress of the United States of
America.'

OcTOBEK 29. — ^This evening a superb ball was given at the

Concert Hall, in Boston, by General Hancock, at which were

present, his Excellency Count D'Estaino;, and a

Hancock's Ball. ^ , ^ ^ ■, i . , -r^ , „

number ot otticers belonging to the Irench fleet.
There were upwards of a hundred of the principal ladies of the
town present, who, being richly and elegantly dressed, added a
most enchanting brilliancy to the evening, and, in the eyes of
their countrymen, at least, gave no bad specimen of American
female grace and beauty.^

November 2. — ^The intelligence to-day, that may be de-
pended upon, is, that tlie British have made a very consider-
Eumorsfrom ^^^'^ embarkation, supposed already to amount to
Now York. jieaY ten thousand, onboard one hundred and fifty
sail of transports, which, at diflerent times, have fallen down
from New York to Sandy Hook and the Avatering place, and
were every moment expected to sail. There are different
rumors as to their destination ; some say to Boston, others to
South Carolina. But it is generally believed, considering all
circumstances, that the West Indies are the object. The em-
barkation still seems to be going on, which leads to a conclu-
sion that a total evacuation of New York will ensue ; concern-
ing this, however, opinions are much divided. There is a i-e-
port in New York that Jamaica is taken, and it is said that
rum and molasses have had a very extraordmary rise in conse-
quence.^

Novembee 9. — ^The family of the Count D'Estaing is very
ancient, and the only one in France allowed to bear the king's
arms, with a small distinction denoting a subject. It has cn-

Rivington's Royal Gazette, October 28. ^ New York Journal, Nov. 16.
New York Journ.-il, November 9.

1778.] COUNT d'estaing. 103

joyed this extraordinary lienor for near eight hundred years. Tlie
occasion of its being conferred was this : About the year 1000,
Philip Augustus, King of France, was engaged in „

r o ' o ' o o ^ Count D'Estaing.

a war with the Flemings. In a bloody battle, in
which his own force was much inferior, being only 30,000,
while that of the enemy was 80,000, the king was personally
attacked by a Flemish officer, who was on the point of slaying
him with his lance. D'Estaing, an ancestor of the present
count, and an officer of rank in the king's army, perceiving
the imminent hazard to which his master was exposed, instantly
rushed between the lance and him, and receiving it in his own
body, fell dead at the king's feet. Philip was so affected with
this instance of generous bravery, that he ordained that the de-
scendants of one who had given his life for the preservation of
his own, should forever wear his arms.

A number of Indian chiefs and delegates from the Penob-
scot and ]!^ova Scotia tribes lately Avaited on the count at Bos-
ton, and were received on board the Languedoc, and treated
by him with much civility. It Avas easy to discover that these
savages had not lost their former strong attachment and pre-
dilection to the French. They inquired much after the king
of France, whom the Indians almost universally call their
father ; whereas the appellation commonly given by their sa-
chems to the British king has been only that of brother.
Among other discourse with the French admiral, they told him
they had heard a new thing which gave them pleasure, that
their father, the king of France, had lately entered into a treaty
of friendship with the States of America, and had sent a num-
ber of his great ships and best warriors to support them against
the ships and armies of _the king of Britain ; but that this re-
port had been often contradicted by the friends of the latter,
who affirmed that only a few small French vessels had come
to trade with the people of the United States, for the sake of
the very high price they could now obtain. That not knowing
what to rely on, they had come to see with their own eyes, and
make report to their brethren on their return. The count gave
them some handsome presents, sent by them some tokens of
friendship to others, and gratified them with a particular view

101 DIAKY OF TUE EEVOLUTIOX. [1778.

of the ships, &c., at wliich they expressed the greatest admira-
tion, and went oif highly satisfied.'

JSTovEMEEE 11. — ^This day, a party of Tories, Indians, and
regulars, under the command of Colonel Butler, made a descent
on the fort at Cherry Valley. An officer -who was in tlie fort,
gives the following account of the affair :

On Saturday night, 7th of ISTovembcr, an express arrived
from Fort Stanwix, informing that an Oneida Indian had ac-
Massaorc at quaintcd them that he sat in council in the Seneca
Cherry Yaiioy. country witli the Six Nations, and other tribes,
and that they had concluded to attack Fort Alden, in Cherry
Valley. On Sunday morning a sergeant and twelve men were
sent on the road by Beaver Dam, towards the enemy, to con-
tinue five days ; another scout, with a non-commissioned officer,
and five men, were sent on the road to Springfield, to continue
four days ; these two roads being the only avenues from the
enemy's country to this place, except an old Indian path that
liad been neglected by us. At the same time, we sent by the
same i-oads scouts in the morning, which returned at night.
On "Wednesday, the 11th, it rained very hard ; the enemy
came by tlie above-mentioned path, past by two liouses, and
lodged themselves in a swamp a small distance back of Mr.
"Wells' house, head-quarters; at half-past eleven, A.ir., Mr.
Hamlin came by and discovered two Indians, who fired upon
him, and shot him through the arm ; he rode to Mr. Wells',
and acquainted the colonel, the lieutenant-colonel, major, and
adjutant being present ; the two last (tlio liousc at tliis time be-
ing surrounded by Indians) got to the fort through their fire ;
the colonel was shot near the fort. The enemy, eight hundred
in number, consisting of five hundred Indians, commanded by
Brant, fifty regidai's under Captain Colvill, and another captain
with some of Johnson's rangers, and above two hundred Tories,
the whole under Colonel Butler's command, immediately sur-
rounded tlie fort, excluding several officers who were quartei-ed
out of the garrison, and had gone to dinner; they commenced

' Xcw Jersey Gazette, Xovciiibcr 25.

ITTS.] MASSACKE AT CHEKKY VALLEY. 105

a very heavy fii'e npou the fort, ■«'hich held three and a half
hours, and M-as as briskly returned ; they were so near as to
call to the fort and bid the " damn'd rebels " to surrender,
whicli was answered with three cheers, and a discharge of can-,
non and musketry. At four p.m., the enemy withdrew. Cap-
tain Ballard sallied out with a j)arty, which the enemy endeav-
ored to cut oif, but were prevented by a reinforcement. Tlie
next day they made it their whole business to collect horses,
cattle, and sheep, which they effected, and at sunset left the
place. The enemy killed, scalped, and most barbarously mur-
dered, thirty-two inhabitants, chiefly women and children, also
Colonel Aldcn, and the following soldiers of his regiment, viz. :
Eobert Henderson, Gideon Day, Tliomas Sherridan, Pclletiah
Adams, Simeon Hopkins, Benjamin Worcely, Thomas Holden,
Daniel Dudley, Tliomas Knowles, and Oliver Deball. The
following officers were taken prisoners, viz. : Lieutenant-Colo-
nel Stacey, Lieutenant Aaron Holden, Ensign Garret, Sur-
geon's Mate Francis Soiiza De Bierve, and thirteen privates ;
burnt twenty-four houses Avith all the grain, etc., took above
sixty inhabitants prisoners, part of whom they released on go-
ing off. They committed the most inhuman barbarities on
most of the dead. Eobert Henderson's head was cut off, his
skull bone was cut out with the scalp. IMr. Willis' sister was
ripped up, a child of Mr. Willis', two months old, scalped, and
arm cut off; the clergyman's Avife's leg and arm ciit off, and
many others as cruelly treated. Many of the inhiibitants and
soldiers shut out from the fort, lay all night in the rain Avith
the children, who sufl:ered A'ery much. The cattle that were
not easy to drive, they shot. "We Avcrc informed by the pris-
oners they sent back, that the lieutenant-colonel, all the officers
and continental soldiers, were stripped and drove naked before
them.

The fort was commanded by the brave Major "Whiting, of
Dedham, in Massachusetts, and the two cannon under the direc-
tion of the brave Captain Hickling, of Boston, who was chief
engineer in building the fort, and. whose assistance contributed
ui saA'ing it.'

' Xew Jersey Gazette. December 31.

106 DIAEY OF THE REVOLUTION. [1778.

E'ovEsrBER 23. — ^Tins morning Major-General Con-n-ay set
out from Philadelphia on his return to France. The history of
the treatment this gentleman has received is so
^' singular, that it must make a figure in the anec-
dotes of mankind. lie has lost his commission, and he has been
refused the common certificate which every officer receives at
the expiration of his service, unless his delinquencies have been
very substantial indeed. His crime was being accused of writ-
ing a letter to a confidential friend, communicating an opinion
that the commander-in-chief (General "Washington) was not
equal to the great task he was charged with.

The above is extracted from a late Pennsylvania paper,
and said to be written by Major-General Lee.'

November 25. — A correspondent in Charleston, South

Carolina, says : — " A body of armed men, supposed to be about

Incursion into ^^® hundred, chiefly on horseback, with four

Georgia. pieces of artillery, from St. Augustine, in Florida,
have made a very sudden and rapid incursion overland, by way
of the Alatamaha, into the neighboring State of Georgia, burn-
ing all the houses, and destroying every thing in their way.
It does not appear that they were discovered before last Fri-
day, yet by Sunday they had advanced to within four miles of
Sunbury, and burnt every house on the other side of Newport
ferry, but not without receiving some check from a body of
militia collected under Colonel Screven, together with the con-
tinentals of the third and fourth battalions, who had retreated
in order to receive reinforcements, to Midway meeting-house,
where they were intrenching to make a stand, but having dis-
puted every inch of ground against a superior enemy, they lost
a few men, and had some of their most valuable officers wound-

' Rivington's Royal Gazette, December 19. In the same paper is the follow-
ing:— "A junto is formed at Philadelphia, and said to consist of Generals Jlidiin,
Thompson, Arnold, and Sinclair; their object is the removal of GeneranVashing-
ton from the chief command of the rebel army. The Generals Lee and Gates,
■with all tlie Yankees who have resolution enough to declare themselves of a party,
wi.sh well to this enterprise. About twelve months ago a motion for superseding
General Washington was carried by only one voice."

1778.] BEITISn ABANDON GEOKGIA. 107

ed." "We since learn that the militia have every where turned
ont with the greatest alacrity, and that such vigorous measiires
are pursuing as, Avith the co-oj^eration of South Carolina, will
probably not only disappoint the designs of the enemy, but
also cut off tlieir retreat. The opinion of some is, that this ex-
pedition has been contrived by Governor Tonyn on purpose to
pacify or get rid of the clamorous Tories and horse thieves
which he has, by intimidating suggestions and lavish promises,
for years past, drawn from South Carolina, and other States, to
strengthen the province under his government."

HovEinsEE 27. — ^The British have as suddenly abandoned
the State of Georgia as they invaded it, and retired into East
Florida. Tlieir hasty retreat was occasioned by j,^,^,^^ ^j,^^^^^
an express sent to Colonel Prevost, advising him Georgia.
of a naval and land force coming against him from South
Carolina, who might cut off his retreat, and by the sudden ap-
pearance of some vessels at the same time off" Sunburj'', which
they apprehended to be the American fleet. Previous to their
going oft', they sent away near one thousand head of cattle,
some sheep, about three hundred horses, two hundred negroes,
and other plunder. Although the enemy have destroyed al-
most every thing in their way, within a mile of each side of the
road south of Ogeechie, yet many buildings and other property,
supposed to liave been burnt and destroyed, are, since their
departure, found untouched. Colonel Prevost, in many in-
stances, has shown that Inimanity and generosity for which
British officers were formerly distinguished. The land force
which came against Georgia consisted of eighty-six regulars,

' Colonel Screven, who in the first skirmish was inhumanly shot on the ground,
having before surrendered and sued for quarter, has since died of the wounds
he received from his savage murderers. The character of this gentleman, as a
firm patriot, a gallant officer, a truly worthy member of the community wherein
he Hved ; and in private life that of an affectionate husband, a kind and indulgent
parent, and steadfast friend, must render his loss deservedly and imiversally re-
gretted. In fine, he lived the worthy citizen, and fought and died the brave
and gallant champion in his country's cause. — Quis desiderio sit modus tarn cari
capitis. — Peiinsyhania Packet^ January 28, 1*779.

' Eivington'a Gazette, January 20, 1779.

108 DIAUY OF TUE EEVOLrTION. [ITTS.

and about five hnudred Scofelites and rangers in one body, ^vlio
entered the country at Fort Howe, and marched on by land
under Colonel Prevost ; while between four and fire hundred
regulars, in another body, eonimanded by Colonel Fuser, landed
upon Colonel's Island near Sunbury, (fordable at low water,)
and marched into that town. Their naval force consisted of
no more than the ship Lord Germaine, of twenty guns, (two
and three-pounders,) the brig Spitfire of sixteen, the sloop
Musquito of ten, the sloop Tonyn's Revenge of eight, a large
galley with two twelve or eighteen-pounders in her bow, a
large fiat, and a number of boats, &c., most of them mounting
one or two swivels, and generally lay at St. Simon's inlet.
After Colonel Fuser withdrew from Sunburj'', the two bodies
joined at Newport ferry, where they intrenched, to cover and
give time to their hunters to get oft' with the cattle, and when
that was accomplished they followed.

A great variety of conjectures having been formed concern-
ing this expedition. One is, that they came only to forage-
Another, that it was undertaken merely to pacify the clamors
of the discontented Scofelites, by giving them an opportunity
to j)lunder, till the grand scheme in which it was intended to
employ them should be ripe. Another, that they had some
more extensive object in view, and a part of their plan had
failed them ; perhaps their scaljjing brethren and the numer-
ous bands of Tories they expected to co-operate with them, did
not appear at the time appointed. Another, that it was a
project to stop the sale of estates of attainted persons, and en-
deavor to get ofl^ their slaves. Another, that the enemy Avere
impelled by the want of a suflicient supply of provisions, and
the consequent dread of a famine, to risk their whole strength
to procure cattle. But the opinion that seems to be most prob-
able is, that the late expedition is only part of one, long since
projected by that restless, artful, specious and aspiring deserter
and betrayer of his coimtry, the well-known Moses Kirkland,
improved by Governor Tonyn, the Indian agent, and General
Grant, for the conquest of the Southern States, with a view to
share the spoil among them, and with the Loyal Eefugkes, as
they style themselves, who have basely deserted their country,

1778.] BEITISn ABAXDOX GEOEGIA. 109

and pnt themselves imder tlie protection of the British generals
at New York. That General Sir Henry Clinton, wlien con-
vinced by experience that it wonld not be possible for all the
force of Britain to subjugate America, finding these people both
troublesome and expensive, ■willing to get rid of them as decent-
ly as possible, and desirons at the same time to prevent an in-
crease of pensions on the Britisli government, at last so far
adopted Mr. Kirklaiid's plan, as to form them into regiments,
fumisli them with arms, and the means for an embarkation and
invasion of these States, Avith full liberty to spread devastation
and ruin to the extent of their inclination and ability, and a
promise, if they can conquer, of the best plantations and most
valuable gangs of slaves, in proportion as they shall distinguish
themselves, together with a government on the British estab-
lishment, and siicli officers (from among themselves) as the King
shall be pleased to approve of. That to forward these pur-
poses, orders have been sent to the troops and banditti in East
Florida, to make a rapid inCursion into Georgia at a fixed period,
for securing the most advantageous posts to favor future ope-
rations ; and to the Indian superintendent, at the same time, to
pour the savage allies of Britain, Avitli all the horrors of their
warfare, into the heart of the settlements, imder the guidance
of Richard Pearis, &c., wliile the emissaries of Britain, dis-
persed througli these States under a variety of disguises, from
the eastern shore of Maryland quite to Florida, should prepare
the ignorant, and the wicked outcasts of eacli, to repair to their
standard. But, that the East Floridans, too eager to carry
their part of the plan into execiition, had penetrated into the
country rather precipitately ; being, perhaps, deceived by their
reliance on the Indians, and the Tory embarkation providen-
tally delayed, dispersed by a storm, or prevented by the unex-
pected news of the Marquis de Bouille's operations in the "West
Indies. Be these conjectures well founded or not, it certainly
behooves us to be spiritedly active, and thoroughly guarded,
against every possible evil that may be brought upon us, by
our declared, or infinitely more dangerous, concealed enemies."

' Fennsj-lvania Packet, January 30, 1779.

110 DIARY OF THE KKYOLUTION. [1778.

Most of the American parricides have righteously been dis-
appointed of the honors and rewards they expected for turning
their hand against their native conntry, and have
onng. ^^^^ ^j^^.^_ ^^jj^ when it was too late. Among the
few wretches who with the heart, have also had the opportuni-
ty to make money from the groans and famishing of their
countrymen, Joshua Loring, a native of the State, and commis-
sary of prisoners at New York, is one. Somebody, we are well
informed, asked old General Eobertson, how this man got his
wealth ; the General replied, " By feeding the dead, and starv-
ing the living.'''' Alluding to his charging provisions for those
that had been long dead, and at the same time pinching out
for his own gain, a part of the miserable allowance for those
that were alive.'

DECEinjEE 12. — ^This evening a most splendid ball was given
by a society of French gentlemen, to the principal ladies and

French Ball at gentlemen of Philadelphia, at the New Tavern.

Philadelphia, jjjg ExccUcncy the Governor of Pennsylvania,
and his lady, the lady of His Excellency General "Washington,
and His Excellency the French minister, honored it with their
company. Both the outside and inside of the ball-room were
handsomely decorated with a number of ingenious devices and
mottoes, signifying the present happy alliance between the
court of Versailles and the United States. Too much praise
cannot be given to the French gentlemen, for the order, polite-
ness, and benevolence with which they conducted every part of
this entertainment. The evening has been spent in the most
agreeable manner, joy appears in every countenance, and every
heart seems to exult in safety, freedom, and independence,
which have been ensured to our country by the friendship and
magnanimity of the Protector of the Eights of Mankind."

TnE good of the community, the safety and security of the
individuals, is the direct and ultimate end of civil government.
Tlierefore, that is politically and really just, which is necessary

' New York Journal, December 7. ' New Hampshire Gazette, Feb. 2.

1778.] JUSTICE AND EEVENGE. Ill

to this end. Goodness and benevolence to the great -n-liolc
ought always to be the end ahned at in punishing particnlar
ofienders. The depraved state of human nature, justice and
which causes the necessity of civil government, Eevcnge.
not only justifies, but requii'cs punishment, as the necessary
penalty of the law. This punishment is sometimes awfully
severe and shocking, as when a criminal is brought to the gal-
lows. The scene is so truly dreadful, that a tender, compas-
sionate heart can scarcely exclude from it the idea of cruelty.
It is, therefore, highly necessary, that our minds shoiild be
taught and habituated to distinguish between cruelty and
justice. Justice, in the matter of punishment, obliges the
judge, the executive officer, to inflict the severest penalty of
the law, even death itself, purely from a regard to right or
justice, and with a benevolent design to the public good.
Cruelty is either undue and needless punishment, or the inflict-
ing a necessary punishment with a spirit of revenge and hatred
against the unhappy criminal. If a jury in drawing up a ver-
dict, even upon the fullest evidence against a murderer, or the
judge in sentencing him to death, are actuated by the spirit
of personal hatred or revenge, they themselves are really mur-
derers in the sight of Heaven, even while they are employed in
the execution of necessary justice. From the murderous source
of private pique and revenge, frequently arise those mobs and
riots which destroy the peace of society, and oppose the im-
portant end of government. These outrageous ebullitions of
heated, misguided malevolence, are eqiially detestable in their
principle and dreadful in their consequences. Every tnie
friend to government and good order must seriously lament, and
will endeavor to suppress these whirlwind bursts of violence,
which indiscriminately tear down all before them, and equally
involve the innocent and the guilty in promiscuous ruin. At
the same time it is evidently true that these horrible calamities
and disorders are frequently occasioned by the magistrate's
neglecting his duty in not preventing, or timely removing the
unhappy occasions of them. It is, therefore, the wisdom and
incumbent duty of civil rulers to prevent these dreadful crimes
by wise laws steadily executed, which is much easier in itself,

112 DIABY OF THE EEVOLUTIOX. [1778.

and safer to tlie communitj, than Leing reduced to the hard
necessity of j^iinishiug tliem ; and one or the other of these
must be done, or else government is at an end. Let us give,
for iUustration, an instance, which nearly affects the peace and
quiet of these States. Shoidd those who have gone from us,
and cruelly taken part with the enemies of their country, be
permitted to return with impunity, and run at large among us,
the certain conseqnence will 'bemois, riots, and lloodshed ; for
a people who have had the spirit to go out and fight them,
with their less guilty associates, in the field of battle, will not
patiently endure to have such a desperate gang patrolling about
among them, with envenomed hearts prepared for secret mis-
chief and miirder. And, therefore, by way of prevention, it
is the plainest duty of our rulers, both legislative and exec-
utive, to take effectual care for having those noxious and dan-
gerous criminals either closely confined, or banished from our
land, otherwise their neglect of duty in this matter may bring
upon themselves the very guilt of Mood.

I have heard some Tories still remaming among ns, and
some, indeed, of pretty enormoiis gigantic size, express their
uneasy fears, that we shall not be able to keep iip and main-
tain any regiilar government among oni-selves. This I have
justly considered as an implicit threatening, that they should
still be able, as they have ever been disposed, to create great
disturbances and confusions in the State, and cut out more
work for the civil authority than they would well know how to
despatch. ISTow, I think these gentlemen have an undoubted
right to be relieved from those nneasy fears by such a vigilant
conduct, and resolute exertions of authority, as may at once
prevent mobs, and convince Tories too, that a people who have
strength and courage sufficient to withstand the combined force
of all their enemies without, have also wisdom and spirit
enough to maintain government among themselves, and efi'ectu-
ally curb every disturber of the peace.

I have heard it queried by some, whether those who desert
from the enemy, and voluntarily come back again to us, do
not thereby merit a pardon and restoration to favor ? I grant,
that if they had done this a year or two ago, when they were

\

1778.] CELEBEATION IN PHILADELPHL4. 113

kindly invited to it by repeated proclamations of grace and
favor, they Tvonld have had something to plead. But to leave
the enemy now, and quit a desperate cause, hath not the least
atom of merit ; gives not the least rational evidence of a change
of heart, or betterness of disposition, any more than a tomiented
sinner^s squirming out under the back door of purgatory, for
the sake of better air, is full proof of his evangelical repentance
and fitness for heaven.

In a -word, there is a plain, essential dilTerence between
personal revenge and public justice ; one is murder, the other
is saving life. Shoixld a wi-etch murder the only son of a
judge ; the judge ought, in his private capacity, to forgive him
from his heart this very great injury, pray for him, and sin-
cerely desire his happiness, while, in his public capacity, he is
obliged in justice, and for the public good, to pronounce the
sentence of death upon him.

In like manner we are bound, by the laws of Christ and
humanity, to exercise a sincere personal forgiveness towards
the most guilty and injurious enemies of our country, and not
be actuated in the least by an unforgiving spirit of revenge,
while the public are obliged, from a principle of justice and
self-preservation, to fulfil all those seemingly rigorous measures
which are necessary for putting it out of the power of those
enemies to do still greater mischief to the community.'

Decembee 28. — This day, agreeable to the constitution of
the Most Ancient and Worshipful Society of Eree and ac-
cepted Masons, was celebrated at Philadelphia, Free Mason
the Anniversary of St. John the Evangelist. At Philadelphia.
nine o'clock in the morning near three hundred of the brethren
assembled at the College, and at eleven o'clock went in regular
procession from thence to Christ Church to attend divine service.
Tlie order of procession was as follows, viz. : — 1. The Sword
Bearer. 2. Two Deacons, with blue wands tipped with gold.
3. The three orders, Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian, borne by

" From the Connecticut Journal, republished in the New York Journal,
cember 14.

Vol. II.— 8

114: DIAEY OF THE EEVOLUTION. [1T78.

three brethren. 4. Tlie Holy Bible and Book of Constitutions,
on two crimson velvet cushions, borne by the Grand Treasurer
and Grand Secretary. 5. A Eeverend Brother. 6. Four
Deacons, bearing wands. T. His Excellency our illustrious
brother George "Washington, Esquire, supported by the Grand
Master and his Deputy. 8. Tlie two Grand Wardens, bearing
the proper pillars. 9. Tlie past Masters of the different Lodges.
10. The present Masters of Lodges. 11. Tlie Senior Wardens.
12. The Junior Wardens. 13. The Secretaries. 14. The Ti-eas-
urers.' 15. Brother Proctor's Band of Music. 16. Yisiting
Brethren. 17. The Members of different Lodges, walking two
and two, according to seniority.

Tlie procession entered the church in the order of their
march, and the brethren took their seats in the j^ews of the
middle aisle, which were kept empty for their reception. Pray-
ers were then read by the Eeverend Mr. Wliite, and the follow-
ing anthem was sung in its proper place by sundry of the
brethren, accompanied by the oi-gau and other instrumental
music, viz : —

A GRAND SYMPnONY.

Oiorus.
Behold how good and joyful a thing it is,
Brethren, to dwell together in Unity.
Solo.
I will give thanks unto Thee, 0 Lord ! with my whole heart secretly among
my brethren, and in the congregation will I praise Thee. I will speak of the mar-
vellous Works of Thy Hands, the Sun, the Moon, and the Stars, which thou hast
ordained.

Solo.
The people that walked in darkness hath seen a great light, and on them that
dwelt in the Land of the shadow of Death, doth the glorious light of Jehotau
shine.

Solo.
Thou hast gathered us from the East and from the West, from the North and
from the South ; Thou hast made us companions for the mighty upon Earth, even
for Princes of great Nations.

Trio.
0! I AM! inspire us with Wisdom and Strength to support us in all our
troubles, that we may worship Thee in the Beautt of Holiness.

' Of the different private Lodges.

1778.] BEITISH EISTTEK SAVASNAH. 115

After 'wliicli a most excellent and well-adapted sermon was
preached by our reverend and worthy brother, William Smith,
D. D. The text was taken from 1st Peter, 2d chapter and
16th verse. The brethren have since requested the sermon to
be published, and the profits to be applied to the use of the
poor.

After divine service the procession returned in the same
order to the college ; the musical bells belonging to the church
and the band of music playing proper masonic tunes. The
brethren being all new clothed, and officers in the proper
jeioels of their respective lodges, and their other badges of dig-
nity, made a genteel appearance.

The brethren afterwards departed to their respective lodges,
where they dined together with their usual harmony and so-
ciability, the sum of four hundred pounds having been collect-
ed in clnirch among the brethren and other charitable fellow-
citizens Avho honored them with their company, for the relief
of the poor.'

December 30. — Early yesterday morning the British, un-
der the cover of several armed vessels, landed at Brewton's
plantation, about a mile from Savannah. The British Enter
Continental troops were drawn up on an eminence savannah.
aboi;t half a mile from the town, near Tatnal's gate, their right
extending to the swamp and river, their left across the road ;
and a morass, crossed by the road, in their front. The morass
was thoiight impracticable for near two or three miles up.
Tlie militia were near the barracks, meant to cover the right
of the regulars ; their whole force scarcely amoimting to five
hundred men.

The British, under feint of attacking us by the main road,
filed off to the left, and found means to cross the morass, about
a quarter of a mile above our right ; this, as soon as it was
known, obliged our regulnrs to retreat, which was effected at
the same time that the militia were attacked, and obliged to
retire through the town. Our troops sustained a very hot fire

' Pennsylvania Packet, January 2, 1779.

116 DIAET OF THE EEVOLUTION. [177S.

on tlieir retreat between the tovrn and barracks ; but by that
nieans gained the road which leads out by tlie spring house ;
while the only alternative left the militia was to surrender or
swim McGihTay's Creek. Those who could not swim were
made prisoners, among whom Avere Colonel "Walton of the
militia (wounded in the action) and Major Habersham of the
Georgia regulars. Colonels Elbert and Harris saved them-
selves by swimming.

At present our loss cannot be ascertained ; and I am in-
clined to tliink it not near so considerable as many apprehend.

Colonel Koberts, with four pieces of artillery, was posted
near the Continental ti'oops, and made good his retreat, with
the loss of one of his pieces. All accounts agree that the
Georgians are the most considerable sufferers. '

' New Jersey Gazette, February 10, 1779. A correspondent in Philadelphia,
gives the following account of this affair: — "Scarcely had the enemy retired
from the back parts of Georgia, when a fleet and armament entered Savannah
River, and on the 29th of December, about three thousand men landed within two
miles of the town of Savannah. A proper disposition of the few Continental
troops (about six hundred, under Colonel Elbert) we had there, was made to op-
pose them, but the same day, about noon, the enemy doubled the colonel's right
flank, and very near cut off his retreat, which, however, he effected through a
very heavy fire of the enemy for near a mile, but with the loss of many men either
killed or taken. Colonel Elbert and a Colonel Grimke escaped by swimming a
creek. The enemy soon after took possession of Savannah. The last accounts
from the above quarters say, that our troops had retired to a place called Ebenezer,
forty miles up the river above Savannah, where they were waiting for reinforce-
ments, which were on their march from the Carolinas to join them. It is impos-
sible to ascertain the design of the enemy in this expedition so late in the season
— whether to take up their quarters for the winter, to procure provisions, or to be
joined by the force from Florida. But certain it is, that the inhabitants of the
State of Georgia will be greatly distressed by thia visit. — L. W. Elliot.\ "

CHAPTER IV.

Januaey 1. — Me. "Wasiiixgton Last winter issued a procla-
mation requiring the inliabitants of certain districts to fatten
their cattle, in order to support his army the en- Ecmarks on
suing campaign. The British light infantry hav- Proclamation.
ing at least an equal interest in that measure, one of them, in
the name of the whole, composed the following exliortation to
accompany and strengthen the rebel general's requisition. Tlie
earnestness with which he repeatedly returns to the main ob-
ject of the poem, shows the sincerity with which he seconded
the republican views. Unfortunately, however, the beef was
fattened in vain. Tlie French having been prevailed upon by
the rebel emissaries to keep their treachery in countenance, and
to surprise the world by a breach of faith even beyond all for-
mer examples of Gallic infidelity, the British force required
to be collected for a time, and the army only reaped the benefit
of the proclamation durmg its march through the Jerseys. At
present, however, when the French have been obliged to aban-
don their worthy friends and steal from America with no other
advantage than what they may derive from the honor of their
attempt, and when there is little chance that the rebels will
ever again communicate with their French allies unless by let-
ter, it may not be improper to republish the light infantry
exhortation, preparatory to the operations of spring, 1779.
And as the British are willing that the rebel troops should, as
heretofore, make use of all the beef out of the reach of the
English camps and march routes, it is hoped that the Conti-
nental general will, in return, second this their exhortation, by
a fresh proclamation ; and it is submitted to him whether it may

118 DIAET OF THE EETOLTJTION. [1779.

not tend to tlie advantage and convenience of botli armies to
have this measure not only recommended to particidar districts,
but tlii-oughout the thirteen States, as the British troops will
have occasion for the bullocks in those provinces which they
invade, and the Contiuentals will require to be extremely well
nourished during the long marches from Geoi-gia to the Bay of
Fundy, in which probably they will be pretty constantly em-
ployed.

TO WASHINGTON.

Great Wasliington ! thou miglity son of Mars,

Thou thundering hero of the rebel wars,

Accept our thanks for all thy favors past,

Our special thanks await thee for the last.

Thy proclamation, timely to command

The cattle to be fattened round the land,

Bespeaks thy generosity, and shows

A charity that reaches to thy foes !

And was this order issued for our sakes,

To treat us with roast beef and savory stakes?

Or was it for thy rebel train intended,

Give 'cm the hides — and let their shoes be mended ?

Tho' shoes are what they seldom wear of late,

'Twould load their nimble feet too much with weight!

And for the beef — there needs no puff about it ;

In short, they must content themselves without it,

Not that we mean to have them starved — why, marry,

The live stock in abundance, which they carry

Upon their backs, prevents all fear of that !

Then honest Whigs, make all your cattle fat ;

We to reward you for your care and pains,

Will visit soon your crowded stalls and plains,

And for your pampered cattle write at large,

With bloody bayonets, a full discharge.

You know that we light bobs are tough and hardy,

And at a push you'll never find us tardy.

We have a stomach both for beef and battle.

So honest AVhigs, once more feed well your cattle,

Obey your chief's command, and then 'tis plain

We cannot want for beef the next campaign !

And if we want for fighting, be it known.

The fault, good neighbors, shall be all your own."

' Rivington'a Royal Gazette, January 2.

ITYO.] THE FAIR AMERICAN. 119

Jantjakt 6. — In imitation of her Majesty our truly amiable
queen, of the noble Marchioness of Granby, and of those six
respectable ladies of Westminster, (the owners of ,j.^^ ^^^ ^^^^
the Amazon,) who have respectively equipped pri- Ladies,
vate ships of war, lately, at their own expense, to assist in
humbling the pride and perfidy of France, and in chastising
the rebels of America, it is proposed by a number of the prin-
cipal loyal ladies residing in ISTew York, to subscribe a liberal
sum for the purj^ose of fitting out immediately a formidable fast-
sailing privateer, to be called Tlie Fair American, and for the
honor of the sex as well as for the sake of the name, it is not
doubted that she will be extremely well manned, with gallant
youths.

This instance, while it reflects great credit on tlie patriotism
of the ladies, ought to be considered by the rebels as a proof
of the flagrancy of their own insolence and obstinacy, in re-
jecting such generous offers of reconciliation, as to excite the
indignation of the fair sex, whose natural characteristics are
gentleness and benevolence.

While rebel sons for parricide combine,
Let fame record, how female virtues shine."

The following lines are humbly presented as a JSTew Year's
gift to those loyal ladies of the city of New York, who are
uniting to equip a formidable privateer, to be^^^p^j^^^^^;^^^
called The Fair American ; for the very laudable ^"™'"'--
purpose of cruising against the detested rebel Corsairs, and
their new Popish allies, the base, perfidious French, by their
most respectable and obedient servant

EXTTL YiEGmiENsrs.

When female hearts beat high for virtuous fame,
And patriot passions glow with hallowed flame,
Their good designs, who can refrain to paint?
Tho' weak his colors, and his lines tho' faint.
Hail ! lovely fair ! who grace that safe retreat.
Where Britain's friends in cordial union meet,

' Eivington's Koyal Gazette, January 6.

DIAET OF THE EEYOLUTIOX. [1779.

AVTiose ■well-taught minds, in just connection view,

What's to your God, your king, and country due;

Since your sweet bosoms loyal ardors feel,

And true concern disclose for public weal ;

Since you adopt our Royal Charlotte's plans,

Who to her sex a bright example stands ;

Assured be, that every honest man

Will idolize the fair American ;

Brave loyal tars, and hearts of oak, will vie

For you to fight or conquer, live or die ;

By you inspir'd, they'll plead our common cause,

With vengeful thunder, 'gainst the Congress' laws ;

Firm to sustain and resolute to dare,

The friends of George, no Gauls or Yankees bear ;

With equal heat the French and rebels beat,

And if they rushed your lovely lips to meet,

Soon as full armed, you bid your privateer.

Go, share the trophies of the risiug year,

Her martial crew, their vent'rous course they urge.

Thro' Neptune's plains, piratic gangs to scourge.

Our ancient foes, in naval combats foil,

Still in your laps to pour the golden spoil ;

Some poet, too, will teach each British dame,

That New York ladies emulate their fame ;

On their loved Queen still fix their faithful eyes.

To catch her manners living as they rise ;

Your loyal compact with due praise rehearse,

And place your names in some immortal verse.'

JAmjAEY 7. — At Mr. Dcane's, in JSTcw York, last evening
Captain Andre° read an extempore on Love and Fashion, and
a characteristic " Dream " about the rebels, for wliicli he gained
mnch applause from the " fair and the bold." His allusions to

Jachy Jay, Paddy M'Kean, and other rebellious were

excellent.'

The following is the production referred to above : " I was
lately in company where the Metempsychosis became the sub-
ca tain Andre's J®^* °^ Conversation, and was ably explained by a

Dream. gentleman of erudition, who traced it from the
Brachmans in the East, to Pythagoras in the west, and very

' Rivjngton's Gazette, January 16. '' Afterwards Major John Andre.

' Elliot Manuscript.

1779.] CAPTAIN aotjee's deeam. 131

learnedly demonstrated the probability and justice of this an-
cient system. How it was possible to deny that when man-
kind degraded themselves from the character of rational be-
ings, it became proper that they should assume the figure of
those beasts to whose properties they were already assimilated.
On the other, how pleasing was it to trace the soul through
its several stages, and to behold it rewarded or pimished accord-
ing to its deserts in a new state of existence. Many fanciful
observations immediately occurred to the company. Besides
several pair of turtle doves, some cock sparrows, and one or
two butterflies whom we found among our acquaintances, we
were led to take a survey of superior characters. We enter-
tained ourselves with viewing the soul of Louis XIY. trans-
migrated into a half-starved jackass, loaded with heavy pan-
niers, and jierpetually goaded by a meagre Frenchman, who,
from the most humble of his slaves, was become the master
and tormentor of this absolute and universal monarch. Alex-
ander the Great, for whose ambitious views this whole orb had
been too confined, was changed into a little sorry horse, and
doomed to spend his life in the diurnal drudgery of turning a
mill to which he was constantly fixed with blinds over his eyes.
Charles of Sweden made his appearance in the figure of a Eus-
sian bear, whilst his wiser competitor was placed at the head
of a warlike and industrious monarchy of bees. Tlie poetical
soul of Sappho continued to warble in the character of the
" Love-born nightingale," and that of our countryman Pope
(into which those of Homer, Horace, Juvenal, and Lucretius
had been before blended and transfused) was again revived and
admu-ed in the melodious Swan of Twickenham.

"Full of the ideas which this singular conversation Irad
suggested, I retired to my chamber, and had not long pressed
the downy pillow before the following vision appeared to my
imagination :

" I fancied myself in a spacious apartment, which I soon dis-
covered to be the hall wherein the infernal judges administered
justice to the souls which had animated the bodies of men in
the superior regions. To my great surprise, instead of those
grim personages which I had been taught to ex-pect, I fomid

122 DIAKY OF TIFE EEVOLUTIOX. [1779.

the judges (who ^verc then sitting) to be of a mild, gentle, and
complacent appearance, imlike many dispensers of justice in
the vital air, who add terror to severity, and by their very as-
pect not only awe the guilty, but discourage the umocent. At
one end of the hall, after a short interval, appeared a numerous
crowd of different shades, ushered in and conducted by Mercury,
whose business it was to take charge of the criminals and see
the sentences executed. As dreams are of an unaccountable
nature, it will not (I presume) be thought strange that I
should behold upon this occasion the shades of many men,
who, for aught I know, may be still living and acting a con-
spicuous part upon the worldly theatre. But let this be as it
will, I shall go on to relate simply what appeared to mfe, with-
out troubling myself whether it may meet with credit from
others.

" The first person called upon was the famous Chief-justice
McKean,' who I found had been animated by the same spirit
which formerly possessed the memorable Jeffries. I could
not but observe a flash of indignation in the eyes of the judges
upon the approach of this culprit. His more than savage cru-
elty, his horrid disregard to the many oaths of allegiance he
had taken, and the vile sacrifices he had made of jiistice to the
interests of rebellion, were openly rehearsed. IS"otwithstand-
ing his uncommon impudence, for once he seemed abashed,
and did not pretend to deny the charge. lie was condemned to
assiime the shape of a blood-hound, and the souls of Roberts
and Carlisle' were ordered to scourge him through the infer-
nal regions.

" Next appeared the polite and travelled Mr. Deane, who
from a tricking, hypocritical, New England attorney, was met-
amorphosed into a French marquis, with all the
external frippery that so eminently distinguishes
the most trifling characters of that trifling nation. The judges

' Thomas McKean, LL. D. He was a member of the Continental Congress, and
TOted for Independence. In 1799 he succeeded General Mifflin as governor of
Pennsylvania, and remained in office until 1808. He died in 1817, aged eighty-four.

' Two Quakers, who were executed in Philadelphia for treason, on the 22d
of November, 1778.

1779.] CAPTAIN ANDEE's DEEA&r. 123

deliberated for a time whether they should form theii- sentence
from tlie badness of his heart, or the vanity of his manners ;
but in consideration of the many mortifications he had lately
experienced, they at length determined upon the latter, and
the most excellent ambassador to his most Christian majesty,
skipped off, with very little change in the character of " The
monkey who had seen the world."

" The celebrated Gen. Lee, whose ingratitude to his parent
country was regarded with the utmost detestation, assumed
(by direction of the court) the figure of an adder ; ^^.n^rai charics
a reptile that is big with venom, and ready to ^'^'^•

wound the hand that protects, or the bosom that cherishes it,
but whose poison frequently turns to its own destruction.

" The black soul of Livingston, which was ' fit for treason,
sacrilege, and spoil,' and polluted with every sjjecies of murder
and iniquity, was condemned to howl in the body TViHiam
of a wolf; and I beheld, with surprise, that he Livingston.
retained the same gaunt, hollow, and ferocious appearance,
and that his tongue still continued to be red with gore. Just
at this time, Mercury touched me with his wand, and thereby
bestowed an insight into futurity, when I saw this very wolf
hung up at the door of his fold, by a shepherd whose innocent
flock had been from time to time thinned by the murdering
jaws of this savage animal.

" Tlie President of the Congress, Mr. Jay, next appeared be-
fore the tribunal, and his trial was conducted with all the so-
lemnity due to so distinguished a character; I
heard, with emotions of astonishment and con-
cern, that in various human forms he had been remarkable for
a mixture of the lowest cunning and most unfeeling barbarity ;
that having, in his last shape, received from nature such abili-
ties as might have rendered him useful in his profession, and
even serviceable to the public, he had, by a semblance of virtue,
acquired the confidence of his fellow-citizens, which he after-
wards abused to all the horrid purposes of the most wanton
rebellion, and that being indefatigable in the pursuits of ambi-
tion and avarice, by all the ways of intrigue, perfidy, and dis-
simulation, he had acquired the station of a chief justice, and.

12i DIAEY OF TUE EETOLrTIOX. [1779.

in imitation of the infamous Dudley, had framed and enforced
statutes that destroyed every species of private security and re-
pose. In fine, that by his whole conduct he had exemplified his
own maxim that princes were not the worst and most dreadful of
tyrants,' and had given a fresh demonstration that power could
never be well used when lodged in mean and improper hands.

" The court immediately thought fit to order that this crimi-
nal should transmigrate into the most insidious and most hate-
ful of animals, a snake ; but to prevent his being able any
longer to deceive, and thereby destroy, a large set of rattles
was affixed to his tail, that it might warn manldnd to shun so
poisonous a being.

" Tlie whole Continental army now passed in revieW before
me. Tliey were forced to put on the shape of the timid hare,
whose disposition they already possessed. With ears erect,
they seemed watching the first approach of danger, and ready
to fly even at the appearance of it. But what was very singu-
lar, a brass collar was affixed to the neck of one of their lead-
ers, on which I saw distinctly the following lines :

' They win the fight, that win the race.'

Alltiding to the maxim he had always pursued, of making a
good and timely retreat.

" This timorous crew having hastily retired, 1 beheld a great
and magnanimous commander of antiquity, transformed into a
game cock, who at once began to crow and stii;t about as if he
was meditating a combat, but upon the appearance of a few
cropple crowned hens, he dismissed his purjDose, and I could
see him at some distance from the hall, brushing his wing, and
ruifiing his feathers at every Dame Partlet in the company.
The oddity of this transformation, and of the circumstances at-
tending it, excited in me such a disposition to laugh, that I
immediately awakened, and was forced reluctantly to resign
the character of A Dreamer." '

' See a pamphlet called (I think) The Nature and Extent of Parliamentary
Power considered.

' Rivington's Koyal Gazette, January 23.

1Y79.] MOXMOUTH COUNTY TOKIES. 125

Jjlntjabt 19. — The Tory freebooters, who have their haunts
and caves in the pines, and have been for some time past a
terror to the inhabitants of Monmouth coimty, in Monmouth county
the Jerseys, have, during the course of the present '^''"'''•
week, met with a very eminent disaster. On Tuesday evening
last. Captain Benjamm Dennis, who lately killed the infamous
robber Fagan, with a party of his militia, went in pursuit of
three of the most noted of the Piue Banditti, and was so for-
tunate as to fall in with them and kill them on the spot. Tlieir
names are Stephen Boiu-ke, alias Emmans, Stephen West, and
Ezekiel 'Williams. Yesterday they were brought up to Mon-
mouth Court House, and two of them, it is said, will be hanged
in chaihs. This signal piece of service was effected through
the instrumentality of one John Yan Kirk, who was prevailed
upon to associate with them on purpose to discover their prac-
tices, and to lead them into our hands. He condiicted himself
with so much address that the robbers, and especially the three
above named, who were the leading villains, looked upon him
as one of their body, kept him constantly with them, and in-
trusted him with all their designs.

Van Kirk, at proper seasons, gave intelligence of their
movements to Captain Dennis, who conducted himself accord-
ingly. Tliey were on the eve of setting off for New York, to
make sale of their plunder, when Van Kirk informed Captain
Dennis of the time of their intended departure, (wliich was to
have been on Tuesday night last,) and of tlie course they would
take to their boat ; in consequence of which, and agreeable to
the directions of Van Kirk, the captain and a small party of
his militia planted themselves at Rock Pond, near the sea-
shore, and shot Bourke, West, and Williams. We were in
hopes at first of keeping Van Kirk under the rose, but the
secret is out, and of course he must fly the county, for the
Tories are so highly exasperated against him, that death will
certainly be his fate if he does not speedily leave Monmoutli.
The Whigs are soliciting contributions in his favor, and, from
present appearances, we have no doubt that tliey will present
him with a very handsome sum. The destruction of the Brit-
ish fleet could not diffuse more universal joy through the in-

126 DIAET OF THE KEVOLUTION. [1779.

habitants of Moumoutli, than has the death of the above egre-
gious villains. A certain John Gilbertson, of the same group
of villains, was killed about three ■weeks ago, by a party of the
militia, near Tom's Kiver.'

Febeuaet 2. — ^Tnis morning, his Excellency General "Wash-
ington set off from Philadelphia to join the army in 'New Jer-
washiDgton leaves sey. During the course of his short stay, (the

puiadeipwa, ^jjy relief he has enj oyed from service since he first
entered into it,) he has been honored with every mark of esteem
which his accomplished fortitude as a soldier, and his exalted
qualities as a gentleman and a citizen, entitle him to. Among
other instances, lie was welcomed at his first coming by an ad-
dress from the Supreme Executive Council and the magis-
trates of the city, and politely entertained by the President of
Congi-ess, the President of the State, his Excellency the Minis-
ter of France, Don Juan Marrailles, a Spanish gentleman of
distinction and amiable character, besides the numerous testi-
monials of regard shown to him by private gentlemen. The
coimcil of this State being desirous of having his picture in full
length, requested his sitting for that pui-pose, which he politely
complied with, and a striking likeness was taken by Mr. Peale
Peaie's Portrait of '^'^ ^^il^*^^^P^^^- '^^^° portrait is to bc placcd in

Washington. ^]jg Couucil Chamber. Don Juan Marrailles has
ordered five copies, four of which, we hear, are to be sent
abroad. His excellency's stay was rendered the more agree-
able by the company of his lady, and the domestic retirement
which he enjoyed at the house of the Honorable Henry Lau-
rens, Esquire, with whom he resided.*

Febettaey 4. — It is painful to repeat the indubitable ac-
coimts we are continually receiving, of the cruel and inhuman
American Prison- treatment of the subjects of these States from the
crsatNew i'ork. J^i-Jtous in Ncw York and other places. They
who hear our coTmtrymen, who have been so unfortunate as to
fall into the hands of those unrelenting tyrants, relate the sad

' New Jersey Gazette, February 3. ' Pennsylvania Packet, February 4.

17Y9.] PEISON SHIPS AT NEW YORK. 127

story of theii" captivity, the insults tliey have received, and the
slow, cool, systematic manner in which great nnmbers of those
who could not be prevailed on to enter their service, have been
murdered, must have hearts of stone not to melt with pity for
the sufferers, and burn with indignation at their tormentors.
As we have daily fresh instances to prove the truth of such
a representation, public justice requires that repeated public
mention should be made of them. A cartel vessel lately car-
ried about one hundred and thirty American prisoners from
the prison ships in Isew York to New London, in Connecticut.
Such was the condition in which these poor creatures were put
on board the cartel, that in that short run, sixteen died on board ;
upAvards of sixty, when they were landed, were scarcely able
to move, and the remainder greatly emaciated and enfeebled ;
and many who continue alive, are never likely to recover their
former health. The greatest inhumanity was experienced by
the prisoners in a ship of which one Nelson, a Scotchman, had
the superintendence. Upwards of three hundred American
prisoners were confined at a time on board this ship. There
was but one small fireplace allowed to cook the food of such
a number. Tlie allowance of the prisoners was, moreover, fre-
quently delayed, insomuch that in the short days Neison-s
of November and December, it was not begun to ^"^"^ ^'''p-
be delivered out till eleven o'clock in the forenoon, so that the
whole coiild not be served till three o'clock. At sunset the
fire was ordered to be quenched ; no plea for the many sick,
from their absolute necessity, the shortness of the time, and the
smallness of the hearth, was allowed to avail. The known eon-
sequence was, some had not their food dressed at all ; many
were obliged to eat it half raw. On board this ship, no flour,
oatmeal, and things of like nature, siiited to the condition of
infirm people, were allowed to the many sick ; nothing but
ship bread, beef and pork. This is the account given by a
number of prisoners, who are credible persons ; and this is but
a part of their sufferings ; so that the excuse made by the ene-
my, that the prisoners were emaciated, and died by a conta-
gious sickness, which no one could prevent, is futile. It re-
quires no great sagacity to know, that crowding people together

128 DIAET OF THE EEVOLTTTION. [1779.

without fresli air, and feeding, or rather starving them in sucli
a manner as the prisoners have been, must unavoidably pro-
duce a contagion. Nor is it want of. candor to suppose, that
many of our enemies saw with pleasure this contagion, which
might have been so easily prevented, among the prisoners who
could not be persuaded to enter their service. Some of them,
no doubt, thought they acted in all this with the true spirit of
the British Parliament, who began hostilities against America
by shutting up the port of Boston, interdicting the fishery and
those branches of trade that were deemed necessary to our sub-
sistence; and when some members objected to the cruelty of
such acts, some well-knoAvn friends to the ministry had the face
to ring in the ears of others, Starvation, starvation to the rebels
— starvation is the only thing that will bring them to their
senses ! In short, the inhumanity of the Britons, from the be-
ginning of this war, and through every stage of it, is withoiat
a parallel in the annals of any civilized nation. These things
ought never to be forgotten, though some would fain wink
them out of sight. "We are not, indeed, to resolve never to
make peace with our enemies, but never to make a peace that
will leave it in their power to act over again their intolerable
oppressions and cn;elties. We can never secure ourselves
against this, but by maintaining, at all adventures, the sover-
eignty and independence of these States. Nothing but this
can effectually prevent the present generation from enduring
the severest punishment for their noble resistance to the tyr-
anny of Britain, nor our posterity from groaning tliroughout
all generations under the most abject and cruel bondage."

Febefaey 7. — Yesteedat being the anniversary of forming
the alliance between France and the United States, the honor-
able the Congress at Philadelphia gave a public entertainment
to his Excellency the Minister Plenipotentiary of his Most
Christian Majesty, at which the following toasts were drank,
under the discharge of cannon :

1. May the alliance between France and the United States

' New Hampshire Gazette, February 9.

1779.] BEITISII DESCENT INTO AVOODBRIDGE. 129

be pei-petnal. 2. Tlie United States. 3. His Most Cliristian
Majesty. 4. Tlic Queen of France. 5. His Most Catholic Maj-
esty. 6. Tlie Princes of tlie House of Bourbon. Anniversary of
7. Success to the allied arms. 8. General Wash- ^"'^"^ Alliance,
iugton and the army. 9. The friends of liberty in every part
of the ^vorld. 10. May the new constellation rise to the ze-
nith. 11. May the American stripes bring Great Britain to rea-
son. 12. The memory of the patriots Avho have nobly fallen
in defence of the liberty and independence of America. 13.
A safe and honorable peace.

Tlie cheerfulness which existed in the company upon the
happy occasion of their being assembled was not to be exceed-
ed, and a thousand brilliancies, alluding to the alliance, were
uttered. Tliere can be no doiibt but that every true American
and every true Frenchman will contribute his eiibrts to pre-
serve that connection which is formed by the alliance, and
which is so necessary to the happiness and aggrandizement of
both nations. Tlieir mutual interests dictate such a conduct in
the strongest and most atfectionate terms. Tlie principles of
the alliance are founded in true policy and equal justice ; and it
is highly probable that mankind will have cause to rejoice in
this union which has taken place between two nations ; the
one the most puissant in the old, and the other the most poAV-
erful in the new world.'

Febeuauy 10. — Last Tuesday, about three o'clock in the
morning, a party of the new levies from Staten Island went
into Woodbridge, New Jersey, and marched up British Descent
into the town, imdiscovered, to the house of '■>"> New Jei-scy.
Charles Jackson, in which there happened to lay that night a
scout of Continental troops froni Bonem ToAvn, consisting of
twelve men. The sentinel did not discover them till they had
Avell-nigli surroiinded the house, it being A^ery dark, Avhen he
fired and ran off, making his escape ; the rest being unfortu-
nately asleep, Avere taken by surprise Avithout making any resist-
ance. Their principal object Avas Captain Nathaniel Fitz Kan-

' New Jersey Gazette, February 17.

130 UIAEY OF TUE REVOLUTION. [1779.

dolph, who lived at tliis house. He had just returned from
Staten Island, having been over there with a small l^arty, chief
of the night, and was hut a few minutes in the house before
he was alai-med by the firing of the sentinel, when they in-
stantly rushed into the house and seized him and Mr. Jackson,
with the scout. The party had gone before the inhabitants
had time to collect, without doing any other damage except
plundering the house of a few trifling articles, taking the shoe
buckles out of the women's shoes, which was as little, or more
than could be expected, considering the usual practice of the
British troops, as the men were restramed from plundering by
their officer, said to be a Captain Eyerson, of Buskirk's regi-
ment, who seemed actuated by principles of honor and human-
ity ; and upon this occasion imitated the laudable example
of Captain Eandolph, who has not only distinguished himself
by his activity and bravery, but by his politeness and gener-
osity towards such as he hath taken prisoners, never allowing
his men to plunder — a practice most ignominious and base, by
which Britons have, in the present contest with America,
gi-eatly disgraced themselves, and deserve to be forever de-
spised, in which their principal ofiicers have joined, and so simk
themselves to a level with the meanest pilfering soldier."

Febeuaey is.- — -Tins day, the anniversary of the alliance
with France was celebrated at Fluckemin, in the Jerseys, at a
Celebration at ^"^^J elegant entertainment and display of fire-
piQckemin. -vyorks givcu by General Knox, and the oflicers of
the corps of artillery. It was postponed to this late day on
account of his Excellency General "Washington's absence from
camp.

General "Washington, the principal ofiicers of the army,
Mrs. "Washington, Mrs. Greene, Mrs. Knox, the gentlemen and
ladies for a large circuit round the camja, were of the company.
Besides these, there was a vast concourse of spectators from
every part of the Jerseys."

A correspondent gives the following account of the rejoic-

' New Jersey Gazette, February 17. ' Same, March 3.

1779.] CliLEBKATION AT I'LUCKEIIIN. 131

ings : — " On Thursday, the 18th, I rode from my lodging, near
tliat celebrated spot where General Dickinson, in 1777, took
from the enemy a large number of wagons, horses, &c., with
but a handful of raw militia, to a place about eight or nine
miles distant, called Pluckemin, where the artillery have their
winter quarters. Tlie huts of this corps are situated on a ris-
ing ground, at a small distance from the road, and unfold them-
selves in a very pretty manner as you approach. A range of
field-pieces, mortars, howitzers, and heavy cannon, make the
front line of a parallelogram ; the other sides are composed of
huts for the officers and privates ; there is also an academy
where lectures are read on tactics and gunnery, and work huts
for those employed in the laboratory, all very judiciously ar-
ranged. Tliis military village is superior, in some respects, to
most of those I had seen. Its regularity, its appearance, and
the ground on which it stands, throM's over it a look of en-
chantment, although it is no more than the work of a few
weeks.

" I am told the great philosopher and warrior of Prussia
thinks it no dishonor to copy General "Washington in the mode
of quartering his troops. Indeed, this way of wintering an
army has every thing to recommend it, and more especially in
America, where a great plenty of wood naturally points to
such a practice. Little aid from the country is required ; and
the hands that would be necessary for the sawing and trans-
porting timber for barracks are, by this means, given up to
the culture of our lands, or other useful employments.

"His excellency the commander-in-chief arrived from his
head-quarters about three o'clock in the afternoon. Mrs. "Wash-
ington M-as in a carriage, accompanied by that steady friend to
the rights of mankind, Mr. Laurens, the late President of Con-
gress. I had also the pleasure of seeing Mr. Duer, late a mem-
ber of that honorable body from the State of New York.

" I was introduced to Mrs. "Washington, Mrs. Greene, Mrs.

Knox, and a circle of hrilliants, the least of which seemed more

vahiable than that stone of immense price which the King of

Portugal received from his Brazilian possessions.

. " About four o'clock the occasion was announced by a dis-

132 DIAET OF THE EEYOLrTIOX. [1779.

charge of thirteen round of cannon. We then repaired to the
academy to dinner. The company was composed of the most
respectable gentlemen and ladies for a considerable circuit
round the canij), and as many of the officers of the army as
could possibly attend.

" I had, till now, only seen the outside of the academy. It
Avas raised several feet above the other buildings, and capped
Avitli a small cupola, which had a very good effect. The great
room was fifty feet by thirty, arched in an agreeable manner,
and neatly plastered within. At the lower end of the room
was a small inclosure, elevated above the company, where the
preceptor to the park gave his military lessons. This was con-
verted into an orchestra, where the music of the army enter-
tained the company. The style of the dinner was of that happy
kind, between the extremes of parade and \mmeaning profu-
sion, and a too great sparingness and simplicity of dishes. Its
luxury could not have displeased a republican. The toasts
were descriptive of the day, while the joy and complacency of
the company could have given umbrage to none, except our
enemies the British.

" Just as night came on, we were called upon to the exhibi-
tion of fireworks. These were under the direction of Colonel
Stevens, of the artillery. The eye was very agreeably struck
with the frontispiece of a temple, about one hundred feet in
lengtli. It was divided into thirteen arches, each arch embel-
lished with an illuminated painting, allegoric of the progress
of our empire, or the wise policy of our alliance ; the centre
arch was ornamented with a pediment, and proportionably
larger than the others ; the whole supported by a colonnade of
the Corinthian order. The diflcrent works in pyroteclmy were
very agreeably disposed, and displayed to great advantage.

" In all public rejoicings I make it a point to mix with the
multitude ; if they are not pleased, the demonstration may be
considered as wrong. In the present instance I was charmed
to find that every man's heart went along with the occasion.

" When the fireworks were finished, the company returned
to the academy ; the same room that had served to dine in
served to dance in ; the tables were removed, and had left a

1779.] CELEBKATION AT rLUCICIilllN. 133

range for about thirty couple, to foot it to no indifferent measure.
As it was a festival given by men who had not enriched them-
selves by the war, the lights were cheap, and of their own
manufacture ; the seats the work of their own artisans ; and
for hiightsof dijferent orders, there were hardy soldiers, happy
in the thought of having some hand in bringing round wliat
they were celebrating.

" Tlie ball Avas opened by his excellency the general. When
this man unbends from his station, and its weighty functions,
he is even then like a philosopher, Avho mixes with tlie amuse-
ments of the world, that he may teach it what is riglit, or turn
its trifles into instruction.

" As it is too late in the day for me to follow the windings
of a iiddle, I contented myself with the conversation of some
one or other of the ladies during the interval of dancing. I
was particidarly amused Avith the lively sallies of a Miss * * *,
asking her if the roaring of the British lion in his late speech
did not interrupt the spirit of the dance ? ' iSTot at all,' said
she, ' it rather enlivens ; for I have heard that such animals
always increase their bowlings when most frightened. And
do you not think,' added she, ' you, who should know more
than young girls, that he has real cause of apprehension from
the large armaments and honorable purposes of the Span-
iards?' 'So,' said I, 'you suppose that the King of Spain
acts in politics as the ladies do in aflairs of love, smile in a
man's face, while they are spreading out the net which is to
entangle him for life.' 'At what season,' replied the fair,
with a glance of ineffable archness, ' do men lose the power of
paying such compliments ? '

" If I have looked on the whole sex with an equal eye of
observance, I here confess the atrocious philosophy ; and were
it not too late, I shoidd wish to lead down the remainder of the
dance with so sweetly vivacious a partner. But, alas! my
dear friend, you will soon find that sixhj is a better security
against the hot-spur passions of man, than those beaxitiful icicles
that Shakspeare tells us are ciirled of purest snow, and hung
up ' on Diana's temple,' for the benefit, we may suppose, of
her chaste attendants.

134 DIAEY OF THE EEVOLUTION. [1779.

" I do not recollect that I have ever been more pleased on
any occasion, or in so large a company. There could not
have been less than sixty ladies. I had no eyes to encounter
that shot forward in rays of studied superiority, nor any of
those conscious interchanges, too often the result of gi-eat ex-
perience and knowledge. Tlirough the whole, there was a re-
markable style of looks and behavior, undebauched by British
manners or British entertainments. Their charms were of that
kind which give a proper determination to the spirits, and per-
manency to the affections. More than once I imagined myself
in a circle of Samnites, where beauty and fidelity were made
subservient to the interest of the State, and reserved for such
citizens as had distinguished themselves in battle.

" Is it that the women of Jersey, by holding the space be-
tween two largo cities, have continued exempt from the cor-
ruptions of either, and preserved a purity of manners superior
to both % Or have I paid too great attention to their charms,
and too little to those imperfections, which observers tell us,
are the natural growth of every soil f " '

Februaet 22. — ^The attention of all ranks of people is fixed
upon the expectation of hearing the important intelligence,
which, it is said, the Congress received a few days
" ' ago from abroad, and the contents of which, it is
added, they are in honor and policy bound not to divulge at
present. There are various reports about it, but the two fol-
lowing are all we can get any particialars of at this time : One
is, that the Spaniards have acceded to the independence of
America, have agreed to assist France with thirty sail of the
line, and lend the United States of America thirty millions of
dollars, as they can bettor spare money than their troops at so
great a distance. The other is, that the Dutch have agreed to
^^^ supply the Americans with a considerable loan,

Dutch Loan. y,,]x\ch. is to bc guaranteed by France. Whatever
be the intelligence, it is certain that the price of goods and

' Pennsylvania Packet, March G.

1Y79.] DESCENT ON ELIZABETHTOWN. 135

hard money has fallen greatly since an express boat ariived
last week ; but what part she comes from is also a secret.

Febeuaey 26. — Yesteedat morning a body of the British,
consisting of the 42d and 33d regiments, and the light infantry
of the guards, in number about a thousand, com- British Descent on

'^ ' Elizabetlitown,

manded by Lieutenant-Colonel Stirling, attempted New Jersey.
to surprise the troops and inhabitants of Elizabethtown.
Tliey embarked at Long Island the e^-ening before, about seven
o'clock, and landed on the Salt Meadows, better than a mile
to the left of Crane's ferry, between two and three in the
morning. From thence they were conducted through a very
difficult marsh to "Woodruff's farms, which lies directly to the
left of the town.

Tlie guard at Crane's ferry having discovered their land-
ing, immediately despatched the intelligence to town, Avhere
the alarm being sounded, the troops were afforded an oppor-
tunity to collect. The number and movements of the encu;y
remaining doubtful by reason of the darkness, the troops were
marched to the rear of the town, where the Whig inhabitants
likewise retired.

A detachment of the enemy was despatched to the govern-
or's house," while the main body advanced to the skirts of the
town, and from thence proceeded along the rear until they fell
into the Brunswick road on the right. The governor happened
to be absent from home that night, but if he had not, they
would have been imsuccessful in this instance likewise, as the
family received timely notice of their approach."

' New Hampshire Gazette, March 16. ' Governor William Livingston.

" The only part of the governor's family in the house, -were two young ladies,
his daughters, who had been alarmed before the enemy made their appearance,
just long enough to dress themselves. On demanding his papers, after having
made a fruitless search for his person, his eldest daughter, with great composure,
carried the officers to a drawer filled with intercepted letters from London, taken
in a British vessel, which they pocketed with the greatest avidity, and after hav-
ing loaded themselves with part of the precious intellir/ence, carried off the re-
mainder in the drawer itself. The officers in general behaved with great polite-
ness, and exerted themselves in preventing the soldiers from phmderinj. — Xcio
Jersey Journal, March 2.

136 DIAKV OF THE KEVOLUTIOX. [1770.

Finding tlieniselves completely disapjoointcd in every ex-
pectation, they made tlieir visit in town very sliort ; however,
during their small halt, they set fire to the barracks, the school-
house," (in which were stored some few articles of provision,)
and a blacksmith's shop. So soon as they began their retreat
to their boats. General Maxwell marched such of his troops as
were yet in reserve against their rear ; the mnnber of these,
however, was small, several parties having been detached at
different times to hang upon them.

About half way between the town and ferry, the enemy
perceiving their rear in danger, from the sudden advance of
our troops, and the assembling of the militia, faced about and
paraded, as if for action. A few well-directed shot from our
artillery induced them to renew their retreat, leaving two dead
on the field. Perceiving an embarkation at the ferry would
be attended with considerable hazard, their boats were moved
better than a mile up Newark Bay, while the troops marched
along the meadow's edge, in many places up to their middles
in mud and mire. A galley and two or three gun boats cov-
ered their retreat at this place.

The American loss, exclusive of a few aged inhabitants
whom the British took with them, but have since sent back,
are, one private killed, two officers, to wit. Brigade Major Og-
den and Lieutenant Eencastle, with four privates wounded,
and seven privates missing. Major Ogden, who was reconnoi-
tering the enemy shortly after their landing, very narrowly
escaped being made prisoner ; he was wounded in his right
side by a bayonet, but we hope not dangerously.

The Kev. Mr. Hunter, chaplain to the brigade, on return-
ing from the governor's house, where he had been to give the
alarm, was made prisoner by them in the night, but he had
the address very soon after to make his escape.

The enemy's loss we cannot ascertain, except the two killed,
whom they left behind, two made prisoners, and one boat

' To the honor of the sex, it is to be remembered, that while the school-house,
which had been made a repository for provisions, was on fire, tlie women, aban-
doning their own houses and effects, rescued the public stores from the flames with
indefatigable alacrity. — iVew Jerseii Joitrnal, Mareli 2.

1779.] DESCENT ON HOKSE NECK. 137

taken. Cornelius Hetfield, Smith Iletfield, and Captain Luce,
late of Elizabetlito\vm, were their principal guides. They had
collected a considerable member of horned cattle and horses,
but their retreat was so precipitate, that they -n-ere obliged to
leave them behind.'

FEBnrAET 27. — XionT before last, at eleven o'clock, the
17tli, 44th, and 57th British regiments, the Hessian regiment
du corps. Colonel Emmerich's chasseurs and dra- x,.vnn-s Descent
goons. Colonel Robinson's provincial battalion, f" Horsp Neck.
and a detachment of the royal artillery, nnder the command
of Major-General Tryon, marched from King's Bridge, and
proceeded to Horse Neck, in Connecticut, Avhere they arrived
at ten o'clock yesterday morning.

At their first entering the town, a body of rebel troops sta-
tioned there, under the command of General Putnam, fired a
few random shot, but soon retreated in great confusion, leaving
their three field-pieces (six-pounders) behind them, Avhich his
excellency ' ordered to be spiked up, and the trunnions knocked
oft', also a lai'ge quantity of ammunition and stores found there
to be destroyed. Lieutenant-Colonel Johnson, of the 17tli,
M'ith that regiment, and part of the 44th, was immediately de-
tached to Greenwich, where he destroyed twenty-six salt pans,
a great quantity of salt, a large new schooner, and two small
vessels; after which he joined the detachment at Horse Neck,
when the general, being informed tliat the rebels in that vicin-
ity would be able to collect one thousand Continental and
militia troops, early the next morning, determined to march at
four o'clock. The troops passed many defiles, and got over
Byram Eiver before dusk, tlie rebels annoying the rear with a
considerable fire, but soon after quitted the pursuit. The troops
continued their march, and arrived at King's Bridge this after-
noon at about four o'clock. Tliis service was performed with
a trifling loss, and the men who are missing, through excessive
fatigue, are hourly expected in.'

' Xew Jersey Gazette, March 3. ' General Tryon.

' Rivington's Gazette, March 3. General Putnam, in an official letter from the
camp at Keading, gives the following account of this expedition : — " A detach-

138 DIARY OF THE EEVOLUTION. [1779.

March 4. — Testeedat, the British forces, under the com-
mand of Colonel Prevost, defeated a party of General Lincoln's
army, under General Ashe, near the junction of Briar Creek

ment from the enemy at King's Bridge, consisting of the 17th, 44th, and SVth
British regiments, one of the Hessians, and two of new levies, niai-ched from their
lines for Horse Neelc, on the evening of tlie 25th ultimo, with an intention of sur-
prising the troops at that place, and destroying the salt works.

"A captain and thirty men were sent from our advanced lines from Horse
Neck, who discovered the enemy at New Rochelle, in advance. They retired be-
fore them undiscovered, as far as Rye Neck, wliere it growing light, the enemy
observed and attacked them. They defended themselves as well as possible, and
made their way good to Sawpitts, where they took advantage of a commanding
piece of ground and made some little stand ; but the superior force of the enemy
obliged them to retire over Byram Bridge, which they took up, and by that means
had an opportunity of reaching Horse Neck in safety.

" As I was there myself to see the situation of the guards, I had the troops
formed on a hill by the meeting-house, ready to receive the enemy as they ad-
vanced. They came on briskly, and I soon discovered that their design was to
turn our flanks and possess themselves of a defile in our rear, which would effect-
ually prevent our retreat. I therefore ordered parties out on both flanks, with
directions to give me information of their approach, that we might retire in sea-
son. In the mean time a column advanced up the main road, where the remainder
of the troops (amounting only to about sixty) were posted. We discharged some
old field-pieces which were there a few times, and gave them a small fire of mus-
ketry, but without any considerable effect ; the superior force of the enemy soon
obliged our small detachment to abandon the place.

"I therefore directed the troops to retire and form on a hill a little distance
from Horse Neck, while I proceeded to Stamford and collected a body of militia
and a few Continental troops which were there, with which I returned immediately,
and found that the enemy (after plundering the inhabitants of the principal part
of their effects, and destroying a few salt works, a small sloop, and store) were
on their return. The officer commanding the Continental troops stationed at
Horse Neck, mistook my orders, and went much farther than I intended, so that
he could not come up with them to any advantage. I however ordered the few
troops that came from Stamford to pursue them, thinking they might have an
opportunity to pick up some stragglers. In this I was not mistaken, as your
Excellency will see by the list of prisoners. Besides these, eight or nine more
were taken and sent off", so that I cannot tell to which particular regiments they
belonged; one ammunition and one baggage wagon were taken. In the former
there were about two hundred rounds of canister, grape, and round shot, suited to
three-pounders, some slow matches, and about two hundred tubes ; the latter was
filled with plunder, which I had the satisfaction of restoring to the inhabitants
from whom it was taken. As I have not yet got a return, I cannot tell exactly
the number we lost, though I don't think more than ten soldiers, and about that
number of inhabitants, but a few of w hich were in arms." — Barber's Connecticut,
p. 381.

1Y79.] ACTION AT BEIAE CEEEK. 139

and the Savannah Eiver. The following is the British acconnt
of the aifair : — "The rebel army having penetrated, Avith near
two thonsand men, partly Continentals and part- q^„^„i ^^^^ ^j
ly militia, as far as Miller's burnt bridge, on Brf"-- C'eek.
Briar Creek, Colonel Prevost thought prudent to allow them
to repair it, and to draw them on the south side of the creek
before they were attacked; but information being received
that they had sent off all their carts and wagons to Burton's
ferry, over Savannah River, and proceeding but slowly in the
repairs of the bridge, the colonel concluded that they had no
further object in view, and that they meant to return shortly,
in consequence of which, he ordered the first battalion of the
71st regiment, with about one hundred and fifty of the Caro-
lina volunteers, to proceed to Buck Creek, three miles south
of the burnt bridge, in order to mask the advance corps, with
which he took a circuit of fifty miles in order to come on their
rear, and attack them with five field-pieces, about eight hun-
dred and fifty regidars, and about one hundred and eighty or
two hundred of the Carolina volunteers and rangers. The
march was begun privately on the first day of March, in the
evening. Tlie troops marched all night, and arrived about ten
o'clock the next day, at a place Avhere the rebels had lately de-
stroj'cd a bridge. A temporary one was constructed, but for
want of grapnels and cables, could not stand the strength of
the current, the creek being both wide and rapid. A pontoon
was then substituted, and though it occasioned considerable
delay, the troops and artillery were carried over before day-
break on the third instant. The light infantry and the horse
had been sent forward the preceding evening, to prevent the
retreat of the enemy, and to conceal the intended movement.
The scouts gave advice that they had discovered some parties
of the enemy, when they were reinforced with a view to attack
them, and to prevent their retreat to the main body of their
army, and at the same time to conceal the march of the regu-
lar troops. In the attack, part of them escaped over the river,
having a ferry there, a few of them were taken, and some saved
themselves by the great speed of their horses ; but as they had
not discovered the troops, it gave no kind of apprcliension that

140 DIAKT OF THE EEVOLUTION. [1779.

it M-ould alarm tliem, otherwise than to iiicliice them to send a
party in qnest of the scout we had sliown in the rear.

" The prisoners wo had taken concurred in their declaration,
that the rebels were unapprised of the vicinity of any enemies,
and trusting much to their superiority in numbers, were in the
most perfect security. They also said that Major Eoss, with
three hundred light horse, had joined their army the preceding
evening.

" The troops continued their march, and by half after four
iu the afternoon, the flying parties of horse drove in the eiie-
my's picket, and took some prisoners, who informed us that
they knew not of any number of troops but only a few scouters
coming. The troops were rapidly formed, with the light in-
fantry on the right , and two field-pieces were ordered to pene-
trate by a road leading towards the left of the rebel army.
The centre was composed of the 2d battalion 71st, with some
rangers, and Carolina foot on their left, and one howitzer and
two six-pounders in their front. About one hundred and fifty
horse Avero ordered to take the left of the whole, to turn the
right flank of the enemy. A reserve was formed about four
hundred yards to the rear, and consisted of three companies of
grenadiers from Florida, and a troop of dragoons. About forty
or fifty riflemen were posted to ambuscade a place through
which the rebels might attempt, under cover of a SAvamp and
thicket, to attack our left and rear.

" The enemy began a scattering fire of musketry, and fired
some cannon, but were put to flight in an instant. Tliey could
not stand the spirited attack of Sir James Baird's light infantry
on our right, and frour that instant the success of the day was
decided. Tliey were pursued to the creek, into which, after
throwing away their arms, the most active plunged and escaped
by swimming ; their right had no means of escaping, but over
a lagoon very deep and broad, and then to cross the river Sa-
vannah. In that place, numbers have been drowned and per-
ished, many were killed in the pursuit, and about one hundred
taken prisoners. General Ashe, the commanding ofiicer of their
army, with some other officers of note, were mistaken by the
2d battalion 71st for some of our own people, as they passed

►

1Y79.] &ENEEAL ASHE AT BEIAE CREEK. 141

by tlicm and took off their liats. Brigadier-General Elbert,
Colonel M'lntosh, two other colonels, and twenty-three more
officers have been taken, seven pieces of cannon, several stand
of colors, their baggage, arms, ammimition, and every thing,
in short, fell into the hands of the brave, victorious troops.
K"ot a whole platoon of the rebel army escaped together, on
our right or left. Tlie panic occasioned by the terror of the
bayonet, left them no alternative but that of plunging into the
water, many of which, we are since informed, have been met
without any other clothes but a shirt and breeches, and with-
out arms, numbers of them badly wounded ; few would have
escaped if night had not come on so soon.

" Tlie loss on our side was one officer wounded, five pri-
vates killed, and ten wounded ; that of the enemy, about one
hundred and fifty killed in the pursuit, vast numbers were
drowned, and the rest rendered useless, having lost their arms
and clothes.

"The coolness and intrepidity of the troops was conspicu-
ous ; not a word was heard but what Avas expressive of a wish
to come up with the enemy ; a cheerful, smiling countenance
appeared on every side ; the confidence of the troops was, to
a degree, a sure and certain sign of the success they met with.
K^otwithstanding every fatigue, and even want of provisions
for the whole day of the engagement, the troops formed, ad-
vanced rapidly, changed their disposition, and manoeuvred
with as much ease as they could have done on the same ground
had no enemy been in sight." '

' New York Gazette, March 29. " The British account of this action," says
Cllft in his Diary, "is much more satisfactory than the rumors we get from our
own people, (the Americans.) There is great reason to believe that some one is
to blame for the defeat, as I hear the position was good and the men were willing "
Gordon says : " Upon the appearance of the British light infantry, Ashe said to
Elbert, who commanded the Continentals, ' Sir, you had better advance and en-
gage them.' The Continentals did not exceed one hundred rank and file ; but
upon Elbert's ordering them, they formed, advanced thirty yards in front of tlie
enemy, and commenced a very sharp fire upon them, and continued it about fif-
teen minutes. Ashe and the North Carolina miUtia remained about one hundred
yards in the rear, entirely inactive. Instead of advancing to support the Conti-
nentals they were struck with such a panic at being so completely surprised that
they went to the right about, and fled in confusion without discharging a single
musket." — History of the American Revolution.

142 DIAET OF THE EEVOLUTION. [1779.

Sir "William Howe, when in America, says a correspond-
ent in London, was tlie worst general that ever a British army-
was cnrsed witli. The flower of our troops, which
' should have blossomed in the full bloom of vic-
tory, and have extended conquest through all the continent of
America, was permitted to wither among the weeds of dissipa-
tion, and all its former glory to fade in the eyes of the sur-
rounding enemy. Hundreds of young men were ruined at the
gaming tables in Philadelphia and New York — ^places of cer-
tain destruction, protected and countenanced by the com-
mander-in-chief. Our officers were practising at the dice-box,
or studying the chances of picquet, when they should have been
storming towns, and crushing the spirit of rebellion ; and the
harlot's eye glistened with wanton pleasure at the general's
table when the brightness of his sword should have reflected
terror on the face of the rebels. Cleopatra's banquet was in
continual representation, and the American Antony at the
head of each feast.

An army so commanded, or rather so indulged, might, in-
deed, to the general, gain the applause of giddy subalterns, and
the thanks of gambling veterans ; no wonder, then, that a tri-
umphant arch was raised to the hero's fame : but to a soldier
it intimated disgrace, for it was not adorned with one laurel
of victory.'

Every step that General Howe took through the course of
his most lucrative appointment, is now known to the people
of England. The general of middle fortune, and yet humble
abilities, has returned enriched by his command, and dignified
by his sovereign. But when we investigate the source from
whence this honor and these riches arose, we find that the lat-
ter was owing to an inaction which delayed conquest and pro-
longed the war, whilst the former is but a type of the crimson
stream which wantonly flowed at Bunker's Hill."

MAiicii 17. — It may not be amiss to observe, by way of rc-

' Alluding to the Mischianza ; Bce page 52, ante.
^ " Veutidius," Upcott, v. 371.

1779.] PAETIES IN AMERICA. 143

freshing some people's memories, tliat the continent of North
America extends from the frozen regions of the north, where
the snn scarce deigns to cast a look, to the sonth- jj^^^^^g rpspect-
ern climes that burn beneath his vertical rays, and ^"^ America,
includes all the variety of soil and climate — that its coast is
washed by the Atlantic for fifteen hundred miles — that it is in-
tersected by rivers that may vie with the Thames and the IS'ilc
— that it extends westward as far as the imagination can trav-
el, and is in itself an inexhaustible source of national wealth
and strength.

A copper-colored species of human beings occu^^y the
immense tract of wilderness in common with wolves and
bears ; an edging or border of this boundless country is settled
by European colonics, all of which, to the northward of the
Mississippi, appertain to the British empire. Twelve of these
colonies are at present in rebellion, but if fame says true,
must, ere long, return, like the prodigal son, to the arms of
an affectionate though offended parent.

The inhabitants of the revolted provinces may be classed
as follows : First, avowed loyalists, who not only refuse to
take an active part in the rebellion, but improve every oppor-
tunity to assist the King's troops, by supplying them with pro-
visions, giving intelligence, bearing arms, &c. Many of these
are languishing in prisons, and several have been executed by
the rebels in solemn mockery of justice.

A second class consists of people who, though well wishers
to Great Bi'itain and her ca\ise, are resolved to keep in terms
with the powers that be. Tliese pay taxes, subscribe tests, and
take oaths, whenever they are called on ; but notwithstanding
their complying with the reqiiisitions of the rebels, they are
looked upon with a jealous eye, all their motions are watched,
and frequently, especially when affairs put on a threatening
aspect, they are obliged to renew their oaths of allegiance to
the States.

A third sort consider themselves as independent of Great
Britain, and wish to establish some permanent system of gov-
ernment amongst themselves, but are always opposed by

A fourth sort, who consider all government as dissolved,

144 DIAET OF THE EEVOLUTION. [1779.

and tliemsclves m a state of absolute liberty, M'liere tbcy wisli
always to remain. Tliis class is so far from being inconsider-
able, tbat in several counties they have been able hitherto to
prevent any courts being opened, and to render every attempt
to administer justice abortive.

An effort was made in Massachusetts to establish a form
of government, but a doubt Avas started, whether it was the
proper business of the few or the many, or in other words,
whether such a measure ought to originate with the assembly
or the people. Tlie politicians took different sides, and a paper
war was commenced. Tlie assembly, however, undertook to
draw the outlines of a model, which was rejected by a major-
ity of the town, so that at present, what civil government they
have, is the remains of their charter institution, and consists of
a council and house of representatives, without a governor.

Tlie dismission of John Adams from the rebel embassy at
the court of Versailles, indicates a decline of the influence of
the northern faction, and bodes no good to American independ-
ence. Jolnr Adams is the Idnsman and creature of Samuel
Adams, the Cromwell of New England, to whose intriguing
arts the declaration of independence is in a great mcasiire to
be attributed, the history of which will not be uncntertaining.

Wlien the northern delegates broached their political tenets
in Congress, they were interrogated by some of the southern
ones, whether they did or did not aim at independence, to
which mark their violent principles seemed to tend ? Samuel
Adams, with as grave a face as hypocrisy ever wore, aifirmed
they did not, but in the evening of the same day, in a circle of
confidential friends, (as he took tliem to be,) confessed that the
independence of the colonies had been tlie great object of his
life; that whenever he had met with a youth of parts, he had
endeavored to instil such notions into liis mind, and had neg-
lected no opportunity, either in public or in private, of pre-
paring tlie way for tliat event, Avlilch now, thank God, was at
hand.

He watched the favorable moment when, by pleading the
necessity of a foreign alliance, and urgmg the impracticability
of obtaining it without a declaration of independence, lie

1779.] THE FUTUKE OF TIIE VNITED STATES. 145

finally succeeded in the accomplislinient of his •wishes ; Lnt now,
at the first attempt, the voices in Congress are collected by
colonies, and that of each colony is determined by a majority
of the delegates of snch colony. Wlien a majority is thiis ob-
tained, no protest or dissent is entered, and the vote, by a regu-
lation coeval with the Congress, passes for unanimous. On
the first trial there Avere but six votes in Congress for independ-
ence, the other seven being against it. Tlie delegates for Penn-
sylvania were known to be divided. Adams wrought upon
the versatility of one of them, a Mr. Dickinson, and so carried
his point. Thus a matter of such moment to both countries,
and which, the rebels would make us believe, was the imani-
mous voice of the thirteen colonies, was finally determined by
the single suflrage of Mr. Dickinson ! '

The dependence of these colonies on the mother country
was, a few years ago, esteemed so essential to their happiness,
that the man who could suppose them to have ^.^^^ Yutim ot
formed the design of a separation, would have been "^^ umted states.
accused of madness, and treated as their greatest enemy. How
could it be imagined that the ties of religion, laws, manners,
and commerce, not to mention those of duty and allegiance,
would have been imiversally forgot, and that, too, at the very
time when the colonists were professing the deepest sense of
them ? It is certain that the British nation could not, for a
long time, be induced to believe that the colonies seriously en-
tertained such a design ; and those who, from the inordinate
ambition of individuals, and the blind fury of a misguided joop-
ulace, foretold the event, were doomed, like Cassandra, not to
1)0 credited, although they spoke the truth.

But remote from the probability as this design would some
time ago have been imagined, it is by no means so strange as
the conjunction which the colonies have formed Avith the
French nation — a conjunction so nnnatural, that we might as
well have expected to see the tiger and the ox feed at one
stall, or the lion and the lamb lie down together.

' "Deciu?," in the London Morning Post; Upcott,
Vol. II.— 10

146 DIAEY OF THE EETOLUTION. [1779.

Tlie seeming indifference with wliieh many of the colonists
regard this baneful alliance, may serve to remind ns of an ob-
servation, founded in experience, that those tilings Avhich would
have struck us with amazement if related of former ages, pass
without causing any such impression when they liappen in our
own times. A celebrated writer and great politician carries
this matter so far as to declare, tliat he is well convinced the
appointment of Caligula's horse to be consul was not thouglit
very extraordinary when it actually took place, notwithstand-
ing the gross absurdity of the fact, and the manner Ave arc af-
fected by it as it appears in the page of history.

When posterity shall observe the colonies disdainfully re-
jecting every advance to an accommodation made by the parent
country, with the most liberal offers of freedom and security,
and shall behold them, on the other hand, crouching, in the
most humiliating manner, to a petty servant of the French des-
pot, from whom they can expect neither liberty nor safety,
they Avill doubtless be struck with indignation and surprise,
though too many Americans at this day seem insensible to such
emotions.

In politics, as well as in optics, it is necessary for clear and
distinct vision, that the object should be placed at a cei-tain
distance, because otherwise, in the one case, we may indeed
scan a part, but cannot comprehend the whole ; and in the
other, we are prevented from seeing clearly by that cloud of
interest and prejudice which never fails to arise during the
existence of the transaction.

For tliis reason, it may not lie amiss in some cases to sup-
ply by ar,t the distance that would otherwise be Avanting, and
Ave may procure that effect either by producing from liistory
similar transactions, Avhich cannot fail of seizing and affecting
the mind of the reader, or by throwing into one striking picture
the consecpiences of a measure before passion has prepared tlie
people to embrace them.

Thus a lively representation of the distress to which Great
Britain Avas reduced in the reign of King Cliarles, Avhcn design-
ing men, under pretence of oj^pression, and Avith affected re-
gard for liljcrty and property, overthrcAV tlie barriers Avliich

1779.] TirE FUTUEE OF THE UNITED STATES. 147

the constitution liad raised for the security of both ; when a
military force, for the purpose of a civil war, was intrusted to
the direction of butchers, pettifoggers, draymen, and cobblers,
and almost every character of -worth and distinction in the na-
tion M-as sooner or later exposed to ruin, Avitli the unbounded
despotism in one man which then ensued, and always will en-
sue, in similar circumstances, might have afforded excellent
and obvious lessons to the colonies at the time that they en-
gaged in this unnatural rebellion.

In like manner, the calamities which the Britons under-
went, when attending only " to the suggestions of jpresent fearsr
they invited the Saxons into the kingdom, would, if properly
depictured, have been sufficient to deter any prudent people
from pledging their country to foreigners, or giving them any
considerable footing in it on account of domestic quarrels.

It is sufficient for the present purpose to have just hinted at
these matters. Tlie history of every age and every nation may,
in like manner, afford excellent cautions to all persons of judg-
ment and reflection. But it may not be improper to suggest a
few particulars to the Americans respecting the probable con-
sequences of their alliance and connection with France.

The event of war is always uncertain ; but if we may judge
from the wealth and resources of Britain — the spirit of the na-
tion— the magnanimity of the king — the abilities, bravery, and
experience of the commanders both by sea and land, joined to
the approved discipline and valor of her troops, and the expert-
ness and courage of her seamen, there is all imaginable reason
to suppose that the Grand Monarcpie will ere long be glad to
renounce his perfidious alliance, and the Americans be forced
to sue with disgrace for those terms which they might before
have accepted with honor. On the other hand, even if Amer-
ica, by the power of France and French troops, should oblige
Britain to relinqiiish her just claim to an equitable union of
force and interests, what advantage would the colonies reap
from the event ? Beligion, with tattered garments and mourn-
ful eye, would lament the success which exposed her to the
shackles of Popish sxiperstition, and the lash of unfeeling per-
secutors ; whilst indignant freedom would fly with disgust from

148 DIAET OF THE EEVOLUTIOX. [17Y9.

a land devoted to tlie arbitrary domination of a French ty-
rant.

Let ns for a moment si;ppose tlie American triumph com-
plete, and that some of those events -n-hicli mnst inevitably fol-
low it, had already taken place; and let ns imagine onrselvcs
reading a few passages of an American newspaper, containing
an account of some other particulars, which we may reason-
ably judge to be of the following nature :

Boston, Novemhcr 10, 1Y89. — His Excellency Count TjTan,
has this day published, by authority from his Majesty, a proc-
lamation for the supression of heresy and establishment of the
inquisition in this town, which has already began its functions
in many other places of the continent iinder his Majesty's do-
minion.

Tlie use of the Bible in tlie vulgar tongue is strictly pro-
hibited, on pain of being punished by discretion of the inqui-
sition.

N'ovem'ber 11. — ^The Catholic religion is not onlj' outward-
ly professed, but has made the utmost progress among all ranks
of people here, owing, in a great measure, to the unwearied
labors of the Dominican and Franciscan friars, who omit no
opportunity of scattering the seeds of religion, and converting
the wives and daughters of heretics. We hear that the build-
ing formerly called the Old South Meeting, is fitting np for a
cathedral, and that several otlier old meeting-houses are soon
to be repaired for convents.

Noveriiber 12. — -Tliis day being Sunday, tlie famous Samuel
Adams read his recantation of heresy, after which he was pres-
ent at mass, and we hear he will soon receive priest's orders
to qualify him for a member of the American Sorbonne.

Nommler 13. — A vessel is just arrived from ]!^antes, which
brings advice tliat the king has conferred tlie sole and exclu-
sive right of fishing in the American seas upon a company of
merchants in Havre de Grace, and that any of his American
subjects who infringe that right will be punished in the sever-
est manner.

Tlie king has been pleased to order that five thousand of
the inliabitants of Massachusetts Eay shall lie drai'ted to supply

1779.] THE rUTUKE OF THE UNITED STATES. 14:9

liis garrisons in the "West Indies ; the officers for them are al-
ready arrived from France.

Ilartford, Noveniber 14. — Ilis Excellency the Marqnis
D'Imperieuse has, by command of his ]\Iajesty, prohibited the
making or vending of rnm within his government, it having
been found by experience to interfere with the sale of French
brandy.

Kcio Yorli!, I^ovemhcr 15. — ^Tlie edict for prohibiting the
nse.of the English language, and establishing that of the French
in all law proceedings, will take place on the 20tli instant.
At the same time, the ordinance for abolisliing trials by juries,
and introducing the imj^erial law, will begin to take effect.

PhiladelpJila, JVovemhei' 16. — On Tuesday last arrived here
the St. Esprit, from Bordeaux, with a most valuable cargo of
rosaries, mass books, and indulgences, which have been long
expected. It is said she has twenty thousand pair of wooden
shoes on board. IST. B. Tliey are found to be much lighter than
any made of English leather.

On Monday next Te Denm will be celebrated in the Grand
Cathedral, on account of a great victory obtained over the
Dutch in Flanders. It is hoped that the Protestant heresy will
soon be extirpated in all parts of Europe. A grand Auto de
Fe is to be performed on Wednesday next. Father Le Cruel,
president of the inquisition in this city, out of a tender regard
for the salvation of mankind, has thought proper that an ex-
ample should be made of an old fellow of the age of ninety,
convicted of Quakerism, and of reading the Bible, a copy of
which, in the English language, was found in his possession.
He was hardened and obstinate beyond measure, and could
not be prevailed on to retract his errors.

JVovemicr 17. — A criminal of importance, who has been
long imprisoned in the JSTew Bastile, was this day privately
beheaded. He commanded the American forces against Great
Britain for a considerable time, but was confined by order of
government on suspicion of possessing a dangerous influence
in a country newly conquered, and not thoroughly settled.

November 19. — Mr. Duer was, by order of the viceroy, and
at the request of the holy tribunal, sentenced to the galleys for

150 DIA.EY OF THE REVOLUTION. [1779.

profane and obscene language. He -wonld have been broke
on the ■whSel, had he not pleaded his former services in reduc-
ing the country to his Majesty's obedience.

Tlie king has been pleased to parcel out a great part of the
lands in America to noblemen of distinction, who will grant
them again to the peasantry upon leases at will, with the res-
ervation of proper rents and services.

His Majesty has been graciously pleased to order that none
of the natives of America shall keep any firearms in their j)os-
session, upon pain of being sentenced to the galleys.

November 20. — It is expected that the gabelle upon salt
will produce a considerable revenue to the crown. After
paying the customary duties in France, it is chargeable only
with thirty livres per bushel additional duty in America. No
salt can be imported except from the French territories in
Europe.

WoveirAer 21. — Obadiah Standfast, the Quaker, was this
day burnt, pursuant to his sentence.

Noveinbcr 23.— "We hear from Williamsburg, in Virginia,
that some commotions took place there when the new capita-
tion tax was first executed. But the regiment of Bretagne,
being stationed in that neighborhood, speedily suppressed them
by firing upon the populace, and killing fifty on the spot. It
is hoped that this example Avill prevent any future insurrection
in that part of the country.

Novemher^Z. — Ilis Majesty has directed his viceroy to send
five hundred sons of the principal inhabitants of America, to
be educated in France, where the utmost care will bo taken to
imbue them with a just regard for the Catholic faith, and a due
sense of subordination to government.

It is ordered that all the trade of America shall be carried
on in French " bottoms, navigated by French seamen."

Such is the glorious specimen of happiness to bo enjoyed
by America, in case the interposition of France shall enable
her to shake off her dependence on Great Britain — Di talem
avertite casvm.'

' Rivington's Royal Gazette, March 17.

1779.] BRITISH PEIVATEEES. 151

Maech is. — Yesterday, the anniversary of Saint Patricli,
the tutelar saint of Ireland, was celebrated in New York by
the natives of that kingdom, with their acciis- ^.^^ j^.^^^
tomed hilarity. The volunteers of Ireland, pre- Batuiiun.
ceded by their band of music, marched into the city, and
formed before the house of their colonel, Lord Eawdon, who
put himself at their head, and, after paying his compliments to
his Excellency General Knyphausen, and to General Jones, ac-
companied them to the Bowery, where a dinner was provided,
consisting of five hundred covers. After the men were seated,
and had proceeded to the enjoyment of a noble banquet, the
officers returned to town, and dined with his lordship. Tlie
soldierly appearance of the men, their order of march, hand
in hand, being all natives of Ireland, had a striking effect.

This single battalion, though only formed a few months
ago, marched four hundred strappimj fellows^ neither influenced
by Yankee or Ague ; a number, perhaps, equal to all the re-
cruits forced into the rebel army in the same space of time,
which shows how easily troops may be formed on this conti-
nent, from the people who have been seduced into America, and
spurn at the treason and tyranny of the Congress, providing
proper measures are followed, and they are headed by men of
their choice. And, also, that such men, however long they
may have remained in the haunts of hypocrisy, cunning, and
disaffection, being naturally gallant and loyal, crowd with ar-
dor to stand forth in the cause of their king, of their country,
and of real, honest, general liberty, whenever an opportunity
oifers.'

March 80. — ^The predatory plan of the Tories that have
lately infested the southern coasts of Massachusetts, is more
extensive than was at first imagined. Tlae infa-

-r>'T-r* 1 •" (* -%r British Privateera.

mous Urigadier l\uggles, a native oi Massachu-
setts, flourishes with his royal commission at the head of this
band of robbers. The direction of their motions is committed
to this parricide. The noted Gilbert is his second. It seems

' New York Gazette, March 22.

152 DLVET OF THE EEYOLUTIOX. [1779.

tlie governmental folks at New York, heartily fatigued with
having so many importunate hungry Tories hanging npon
them, have come to a kind of compromise with these Avretches.
They are now to prowl for their own living. Tlie British
king allows them small armed vessels, and salt provisions ; re-
specting other things they are to find themselves. Equipped
upon so honorable a footing, they are to seek their pay, and
maintain their families, by plunder and robbery. Their leader
at Sandwich and Falmouth, Edward "Winslow, of Plymouth,
is a specimen of the future fate of many of them. lie is gone
back to Rhode Island with the gout in his stomach, occasioned
by a musket ball, and probably will rob no more.'

Apkil 17. — By a person who was, like many others, forced
into the rebel army against his consent, and yesterday escaped
Condition of the ^^'o™ Newark, we are assured that the rebel troops,
Eebci Arniy. i^ging sejwed witli Salt beef, (which is exceedingly
putrid from bad salt and ill curing,) and being only allowed
a small proportion of wretched whiskey every other day, arc
uncommonly sickly and discontented ; that two regiments in
the neighborhood of "Washington's quarters had mutinied, and
that the most part of the men only wanted an opportunity
either of deserting to the British, or of turning their arms
against those who have inveigled them into a service which
they despise and detest, and who, after having long crammed
them with promises and lies, arc now carrying the experi-
ment beyond sufferance by refusing them wholesome food.'

ArKiL 22. — It may be relied on, that the recruiting service
for the Continental army has lately gone on witli more rapidity
,j,i,jj and success than for a long time past. A single

Eecruitingscrvico.Qfl^ggj.^ wlio lias uot becu loug iipou that service,
will soon send forward from the neighborhood of Boston, in
Massachusetts,;!!© less than two hundred recruits. Others have
met Avith like success. At the same time, we are well inform-
ed, that by far the greater part of the brave Americans, under

' New Ilanipsliire Gazette, April 21. ■ Rivington's Gazette, April 11.

1779.] JONATHAN HOPPER. 153

General "Wasliington, have re-enlisted during tlie war. ISTine-
tentlis of the Southern forces have done it. The men are highly
pleased with their excellent clothing, -which is now acknowl-
edged to be equal, if not superior, to that of any soldiery in
the world. They are equally pleased with the plenty and qual-
ity of their provisions, and the attention that has been paid
by the several States, as well as by Congress, to their families.
Many of these noble-spirited men, upon their re-enlistment,
have laughingly said, "Tlie term is too short; the war, we
know, can last biTt a little while ; bring us an indenture for
ninety-nine years." '

Yesteedat evening, Captain Jonathan Hopper, a brave
and Bjiirited officer of the militia of Bergen County, in New
Jersey, was basely murdered by a party of ruffians

/» TVT -KT t -TT T Til 1. Jonatliati Hopper.

from JN ew Y ork. lie discovered them breaking
open his stable, and hailed them, upon which they fired, and
wounded him ; he returned to his hoiise, they followed, burst
ojDen the door, and bayoneted him in upwards of twenty
places. One of them, named Stephen Eider, was formei-ly one
of his neighbors.''

April 24. — ^Tnis afternoon, the detachment sent out last
Monday on an expedition against the Indians at Onondaga,'
returned to Fort Schuyler. Tlie following ac- j.^. ,iy„„ „„^j„gf
count of it is given by a writer in the Is'ew York ^^^ onondaias.
Packet : — " An entei-prise against the Onondaga settlements of
the Indians having been projected and approved of by his Ex-
cellency General AYashingtoU;, and the direction of it commit-
ted to Brigadier-General James Clinton, commanding in the
northern department, he, on the seventh of April, issued his
orders, and gave the execution of them to Colonel Yan Schaack,
commander of the 1st battalion of l^ew York Continental
troops, appointing as second and third in command Lieuten-

' New Hampshire Gazette, April 27. ' New Jersey Gazette, May 12.

' Onondaga is about two hundred miles west of Albany, in New York, and
about eighty miles from Fort Stanwix.— ffajnc's Mercury, May 17.

154: DIAKT OF TUE EEVOLUTION. [1779.

ant-Colonel Willet and Major Cochran, of the Sd New York
battalion, all officers of approved courage and abilities. The
detachment for the service consisted of six companies of New
York, one of Pennsylvania, one of Massachusetts troops, and
one of riflemen, amounting, in the whole, to five hundred and
four rank and file, and fifty-one officers.

" Fort Schuyler being appointed the place of rendezvous,
from thence, early on Monday morning, the nineteenth of April,
the whole party began their march, provision for eight days
having been previously sent off in twenty-nine batteaux into
Wood Creek.

"After a march of twenty-two miles, the troops arrived
about three o'clock in the evening at the old Scow Place, but
the boats having much farther to come, did not arrive till ten
o'clock. As soon as the boats arrived, the whole of the troops
embarked, and, upon entering the lake, were much impeded
by a cold head wind.

"At eight o'clock in the morning of the twentieth, the
troops halted at Pisser's Bay till all the boats came up, and
then proceeded to the Onondaga landing, opposite to old Fort
BreAverton, which they reached at three o'clock in the after-
noon. From thence, after leaving all their boats with a proper
guard, they marched eight or nine miles on their way to the
Onondaga settlement, and, not being able to continue their
march in the dark, lay on their arms all night, without fire.

" "Very early on the twenty -first they proceeded to the Salt
Lake, an arm of which (two hundred yards over, and four feet
deep) they forded, with their pouches hung to their fixed bay-
onets, and advanced to the Onondaga Creek, where Captain
Graham took prisoner an Onondaga Avarrior. The creek not
being fordable, the troops crossed it on a log, and as soon as
they were over, the utmost endeavors were used to surround
the settlements, but as they extended eight miles, besides some
scattered halntations lying back of the castles, it was impos-
sible ; and on the opposite side of the creek, though our troops
entered their first settlement wholly undiscovered by them,
they soon discovered some of our advanced parties, and took
the alarm in all their settlements. The colonel, however, or-

1779.] THE ONONDAGA EXPEDITION. 155

dercd difTerent routes to be taken by different parties, in order
to surround as many of their settlements as possible at the
same time ; but the Indians fled precipitately to the -woods,
not taking any thing with them. Our troops took thirty-
three Indians and one white man prisoners, and killed twelve
Indians. Tlie whole of their settlements, consisting of about
fifty houses, with a largo quantity of corn and beans, were
burnt, a number of fine horses, and every other kind of stock
were killed. About one liundred guns, some of whicli were
rifles, were among the plunder, the whole of which, after the
men were loaded with as much as they could carry, was de-
stroyed, with a considerable quantity of ammunition ; one
swivel, taken at the council house, had the trunnions broken
off, and was otherwise much damaged, and, in fine, the destruc-
tion of all their settlements was complete.

" After this, the troops began to march on their return, re-
crossed the creek, and forded the arm of the lake, on the side
of wliich they encamped on a good ground. They had only
been once interrupted by a small party of Indians, who firfed
upon them from the opposite side of the creek, but were soon
beaten back by Lieutenant Evans' riflemen, who killed one of
them.

" On the twenty-second the troops marclied to the landing,
embarked in good order, and rowed to Seven Mile Island ; on
the twenty-third crossed the lake, and landed two miles up
"VYood Creek. On Saturdaj^, the twenty-fourth, at twelve
o'clock, the whole detachment returned in safety to Fort Schuy-
ler, having been out five days and a half." '

April 27. — Yesteedat, tlie British, in two divisions, landed
in the county of Monmouth, in New Jersey ; one party at
Shoal Harbor, which marclied to Middletown, ^„,„nj,, ^ ne's
and entered the village at daybreak; the other visit to Jersey.
went in flat-bottomed boats, into Shrewsbury River, landed at
Eed Bank, and then proceeded to Trenton Falls. Colonel
Ford, M'itli the Continental troops, retired to Colt's Neck.

' Kew Jersey Gazette, May 12.

156 DIAEY OF THE EEVOLUTIOIT. [1779.

ISTear the middle of the day the party which had handed at
Shrewsbury Eiver, crossed the river and went to Middletown,
where both the divisions formed a junction. They sent their
boats round to the bay shore, near one Ilarber's plantation,
where they had thirteen sloops ready to take them off. At
eight o'clock. Captain Burrows, who had mustered twelve men,
gave them to understand that they were surrounded by the
militia. They continued in the village till three o'clock,
when they began their retreat. Captain Buitows was then
joined by three other men, and kept a constant fire upon them
for two miles, when Colonel Holmes, of the militia, with about
sixty of his men, reinforced Captain Burrows, and then the
enemy's retreat was precipitate ; they were drove on board at
sunset, and immediately set sail for Kew York. Tlieir num-
bers were about eight hundred, commanded by Colonel Hyde.
"We had but two men slightly wounded. The enemy left three
dead behind them, their wounded they carried off, as their rear
made a stand at every hill, house, and barn in their route. One
of the inhabitants says fifteen wounded were carried on board
their boats. Li their progress, or rather flight, they plundered
the inhabitants, and burnt several houses and barns. Had
they landed in the day, or stayed till the militia could be col-
lected to half their number, (which- we always reckon sufficient
to drub them,) they would doiibtless have repented their inva-
sion. But ever choosing, like their brother thieves, the hours
of darkness to perpetrate the works of darkness, they generally
land in the night, and before the militia can be collected, flee
to their vessels with precipitation, snatching iip in their flight
what plunder they can, and then magnify in their lying Ga-
zettes, one of those sheep-stealing nocturnal robberies, into one
of the Duke of Marlborough's victories in Flanders.'

' Now Hampshire G.izette, May 25. The following is another account of this
affair : — " On Monday last, the 2Gth of April, about break of clay, a detachment
of British, consisting of seven hundred men, were discovered by a scouting party
of Colonel Ford's, coming up the North River, about half a mile below Red Bank,
who immediately gave the alarm. The enemy directly landed four hundred men
at Painter's Point, and about forty of them marched up to Shrewsbury ; the re-
mainder went about half a mile to the westward and came out about William
Warden's place, with a view to cut off the retreat of near three hundred of our

17T9.] OPEEATIONS IN TEIE SOUTH. 157

May 10. — Mk. Zedwitz, late a lieutenant-colonel belonging
to the State of 'New York, iu the service of the United States,
was, a few days aa-o, taken xip near Morris Town,

' ■'° ,11 ., 1 Colonel Zodwitz.

in JerscA', dressed m women s clothes. About the
time the British army took possession of New York, he was
tried by a court-martial and found guilty of attempting to give
information to the enemy, for which he was sentenced to im-
prisonment during the war.' He lately made his escape from
Lancaster, Pennsylvania, and was thus disguised endeavoring
to get to K"ew York. He will probably meet the pimishment
his treachery justly merits."

May 29. — A coeeespoxdent iu Charleston, South Carolina,
gives the following account of the late movements of the two
armies at the southward : — " On the twenty-eighth op„„„„„s ;„ t^^
of -April, a party of the British army, under the ''''""^•
command of Major Fraser, landed nine miles below Purysburg,
and on the next morning, Lieutenant-Colonel Maitland, with
the light infantry of the line and a battalion of the 1st, landed
four miles higher up Savannah Piver. Colonel Mcintosh, who

people posted on that station. Colonel Ford's party (uncertain of the enemy's
force) retreated, and got about four hundred yards ahead of them; the enemy
pursued them to the Falls, firing all the way, but could not overtake them. They
then set fire to High Sheriff Van Brenck's house, and a small house, the property
of and adjoining to Colonel Hendriekson's dwelling-house, which were burnt to
the ground. They also fired the houses of Captain Richard M'Knight and John
Little, Esq. ; but they were extinguished by the activity of the inhabitants before
they had suffered much damage. The enemy then returned to Shrewsbury, plun-
dering all the way to Colonel Breeze's, whom they robbed of all his money and
most of his plate ; and at Justice Holmes', where they plundered and destroyed
every thing they could lay their hands upon, and then retreated to their boats, a
few militia firing on them. They then went to Middleton, and joined three hun-
dred who had crossed over there, when the four hundred marched to Shrewsbury,
and stayed till evening, burning a house and barn and plundering some of the in-
habitants. Colonel Holmes had by this time assembled one hundred and forty of
the militia, who drove them to their boats near the gut dividing the Highlands
from Sandy Hook. One of the enemy was killed and another taken prisoner.
The enemy carried off with them Justice Covenhovcn and son, likewise several
others. They got off by sunset, and returned to Xew York, taking away some
cattle and horses." — Pennsylvania Packet, May 1.

' See page 299, vol. i. ^ New Jersey Gazette, May 19.

158 DIARY OF TUE EEVOLUTION. [1779.

commanded at Puiysbnrg, having only two liundred men, the
major part of whom were militia, (after calling in all his out-
posts,) was obliged to retire as the enemy advanced towards
the town, of which they took possession that afternoon.

" General Moultrie was at this time posted at Black Swamp,
with ahont eight himdred men. The enemy's drawing more
of their forces on this side the river, and advancing higher np,
evidently indicated an intention of attacking the general before
he could be joined by Colonel Mcintosh. General Lincoln,
with the main body of the army, being then eighty miles fur-
tlier up the country, should the enemy have succeeded in tlic
attempt, there Avould be no obstacle in tlicir march to Charles-
ton, and as their force was treble General Moultrie's, the
worst was to be apprehended. These considerations induced
the general to retire on the thirtieth, and that night lie met
Colonel Mcintosh on his march to join him at Black Swamp.
The event proved the propriety of the movement, as next
morning the Bi'itish were in possession of the ground tlic Amer-
icans had evacuated.

" Tlie general halted at Coosawhatchie that night, and having
marched over the bridge, before daylight next morning pro-
ceeded to Tulifinny, and took post there. A field-ofRcer's guard
was left at the bridge.

" Early in the morning of the second of Jlay, advice was
received that the enemy were in motion, and about two o'clock
in the afternoon an attack was commenced by their advanced
party of light infantry at the bridge, where the guard had been
reinforced by one hundred and fifty riflemen. Their superior
numbers rendered it impossible to stop their progress. Little
other loss was sustained in this skirmish than Colonel John
Laurens being wounded in the riglit arm, which deprived the
army of that gallant officer's services.

"The general's army being chiefly composed of militia,
whose families and effects lay in the way of the enemy, was
every moment diminishing, and laid him under the necessity
of retiring, which he did by the Saltketcher road, having de-
stroyed the bridges of Tiilifinny and Pocotaligo in his way.
The army halted for a few hours at the meeting-house, and

1779.] OPEEATIONS IN THE SOUTH. 159

then marched to Asliepoo. They passed the bridge in the
forenoon of the fourth, and took post for the rest of the day on
the high grounds near Mr. Pinckney's houses. Intelligence
was this night received that the enemy's advanced party had
reached Godfrey's, near Savannah, and that their main body
had found means to cross Saltketcher Itiver, notwithstanding
the Americans had taken the precaution to destroy the bridge;
this, joined to the inferior number of our army, which was
considerably less than when it left Black Swamp, and tlic na-
ture of the country, which rendered it impossible to make a
stand without being exposed, obliged the general to quit Ashe-
poo between three and four o'clock in the morning of the fifth.

" At night the enemy halted at Mr. Ferguson's plantation,
called Spring Grove, having destroyed Jacksonborough Bridge
on their way, and reached Bacon's Bridge next night, when
General Moultrie left the army, and proceeded to Charleston.

"Major Butler, who joined the army at Jacksonborough,
with a party of horse, on the sixth, fell in with a foraging
party of the enemy, sixteen miles to the southward of Parker's
ferry. Three of them, belonging to the 71st light infantry,
were taken prisoners, and a few horse killed and wounded.

"Part of Count Pulaski's legion arrived on the eighth; on
tlie ninth. Colonel Mcintosh, with tlie troops left at Bacon's
Bridge, and a detachment from Orangeburgh, arrived in town.
And next day. Colonel Harris, who had been detached by
General Lincoln, with two hundred Continental troops, to re-
inforce General Moultrie, and Colonel Neal, with three hun-
dred men from Orangeburgh, also arrived.

"In the evening of the tenth, intelligence was received of
tlic royal army being encamped on the south side of Ashley
ferry, where they appeared so suddenly as to prevent the ferry
boats being destroyed. The troops stationed in town, regulars
and militia, were under arms the whole night.

" Tlie enemy began to cross Ashley ferry at ten in tlie fore-
Tioon of the eleventh. Tlieir advanced party, composed of
light infantry, cavalry, and savages, took post half a mile from
tlie feiTy. General Pulaski, after reconnoitring them, left a
detachment to watch their motions, and repaired to town in

IGO DIABY OF THE EEYOLUTIOX. [1779.

order to confer witli tlie council. During tliis interval, tlie
enemy had completed their passage of the river, and were ad-
vancuig in three columns towards the town. Their advanced
guard consisted of two hundred horse, foiir hundred Highland-
ers, and some Indians ; their rear guard of cavalry.

"At the distance of five miles from town, some of the
count's party Avere ordered to fire, principally with a view of
announcing the enemy's approach. The enemy made frequent
halts in order to explore the ground over which they were to
pass.

" Tlie count, who had ordered the infantry of his coi^js to
form an ambuscade, and directed a detachment of volunteer
horse which he fell in with to second his infantry, advanced
and made his disposition for inducing the enemy to detach
their cavalry from the head of their column. A close fire be-
gan, when both our cavalry and infantry charged ; but the latter
were exceedingly embarrassed and confined in their movements
by the volunteer horse, owing to a misajiprehension of orders.
Xotwithstanding these difficulties, and the superiority of the
enemy's numbers, the ground was obstinately disputed. But
at length the order for retreat became necessary, and the ene-
my, by their prudence in not advancing, escaped the fire of
the artillery tVom our works. Tlie British loss was forty-five
soldiers and oflicers, and ours thirty in all.

" About ten o'clock at night, an alarm being given by one
of our sentinels, occasioned a general fire of cannon and mus-
ketry from the lines and armed vessels stationed on the flanks.
Major Benjamin linger, who has been sent out with a .party
to fill up a gap in the abbatis, and three privates, were unfor-
tunately killed. lie was a gentleman whose memory will be
ever dear to all those who had the happiness of knowing him ;
and whether considered as a citizen, as a soldier, as the father
of a family, or as a friend, is universally regretted. The ene-
my had several men killed, they say chiefly from the sliipping.

" On the morning of the twelfth, Major Gavdiier, of tlic OOtli
regiment, was met with at some distance from the lines, bear-
ing a flag from General Prevost. Several others passed and
repassed, but in the afternoon all further intercourse of that

1779.] AiTATRS AT THE SOUTH. 161

kind was diseontinned, and every preparation made for vigor-
ously repelling a general assault, expected at niglit, which,
however, was never attempted.

" Early in the morning of the thirteenth, Count Pulaski
went out with a small party of horse to reconnoitre ; and the
surprise was scarcely to be conceived which was occasioned by
his sending intelligence of the enemy having decamped and
recrossed Ashley Eiver. Eleven deserters, and about as many
prisoners, were brought into town during the course of the day.
The sudden departure of the enemy gave rise to a variety of
conjectures. Tlie most probable appeared to be their being
misinformed respecting the strength of the garrison and works,
and their having some intimation of General Lincoln's ap-
proach. Tliey were, for several days after their retreat, en-
camped in different places in the neighborhood of Ashley fer-
ry, and on James' Island. On General Lincoln's coming to
Ashley ferry, they drew in force towards "Wappoo, and it was
imagined meant to hazard an action ; hut they suddenly de-
camped on the night of the twenty-seventh, and passed over
to John's Island, where, by the last accounts, they are at pres-
ent. Some are of the opinion that they intend proceeding
through the islands to Port Poyal.

" As some movements of the enemy gave reason to imagine
they intended attacking Fort Johnson, and the greater part of
the forces then in this neighborhood being req\iired for the de-
fence of the works in town, that fortification was blown iip on
the twelfth. Great part of the ball, &c., have been suace
brought off. Thirty of Captain Matthew's company of the
Charleston militia being sent down to cover a party employ-
ed in bringing off some more of the iron work, were attacked
on Saturday by Major Gardner, with a superior number of
men, but were fortunate enough to escape with the loss of seven
wounded and one taken prisoner." '

An officer of distinction in the British army gives the fol-
lowing " authentic accoimt " of the foregoing operations in
South Carolina: — "The success which his Majesty's ai-my has

Copied from a "Rebel Paper" into Gaine'a Mercury, July 26.
Vol. ir.— 11

162 DIAET OF THE KEVOLUTION. [17Y9.

met witli in Soutla Carolina, by penetrating, witliout any loss
of men, to tlie very gates of Charleston, and obliging the
British Account of encmv to bum its beautiful suburbs, will hardly

the Operations , ■,. ■, rm -, -yn^ i • n i

at tiie South, be credited. 1 he natural dimculties of the coun-
try were thought a sufficient barrier, with General Moultrie's
army, to stop us from penetrating any distance into the prov-
ince, but the spirit shown by the troops, their patience and
perseverance imder the severest fatigues, were such as would
have surmounted greater obstacles than the resistance of the
enemy.

" We arrived before Charleston on the eleventh, in the even-
ing, after almost totally destroying or taking that famous le-
gion of Pulaski's, by forty-five of our gallant dragoons, under
the command of the brave Captain Tawes. Amongst the killed
of the enemy, was Count Pulaski's colonel, and several pri-
vates, besides a great number of prisoners taken. The enemy
sent next morning to know what terms we would grant. Four
hours were allowed them to surrender prisoners of war, or take
the oaths of allegiance to his Majesty, and be protected in their
persons and j^roperty, and return to the class of peaceful citi-
zens. But an express having arrived in the mean time from
General Lincoln, with an account of his approach, and that a
reinforcement would be in town that day, the enemy grew
more confident, and began to talk in higher terms ; however,
they proposed a neutrality for the province until the war be-
tween Great Britain and America was determined ; but it be-
ing a proposition ' which the general could not agree to, they

' The following is the proposition made by Colonels Smith and Mcintosh to
Colonel Provost and Captain Monciief, at a conference at Charleston, May 12,
1119 : — " Tliat Carolina should remain in a stale of neutrality during the war, and
the question whether Carolina should remain an independent State, or be subject to
Cheat Britain, be determined by the fate of the war.''

This proposition shows in a clear point of view, with what ease the people of
Carolina can throw off and break their most solemn engagement with the Conti-
nental Congress and France, on the approach of real danger, or whenever they
think it will stiit their private views. Such J3 the much boasted virtue and honor
of the inhabitants of South Carolina.

Some time ago the State of South Carolina made a requisition to the Conti-
nental Congress for a supply of troops in South Carolina ; the Congress sent

1779.] FOKT LATATETTE TAEEN. 163

were iuformed tliat nothing conld bo granted but the most fa-
vorable terms, as to security of persons and property if the
pLace was surrendered ; this they declined on the encourage-
ment received from General Lincohi, the arrival of their armed
vessels to flank their works, and the number of guns mounted
on them. Tlie storming of the place was the next point to be
considered, but though it was not doubted but it might be carried
in that way, yet, as it would probably have been attended
with the loss of a considerable number of men, which may be
avoided by proceeding on another plan, (where the success will
be at least equally certain, and the risk less,) it was therefore
determined to keep the field, as we were so situated as to in-
sure a communication with our shippmg, receive the necessary
supplies, and from thence act as circumstances should require.
Tliis measure is now pursued, and the army are in possession
of James' and John's Islands, the enemy having precipitately
abandoned the very strong fort situated on the former island,
called Fort Jolmson." '

Mat 31. — Day before yesterday, fifteen lumdred men, con-
sisting of British and Hessian grenadiers, light infantry, volun-
teers of Ireland and Yagers, landed on Teller's port Lafayette
Point, eight miles below Peekskill, on the North Taten.
River,' and the following day another party landed on the west
side of the river, where they burnt some houses, and opened
two small batteries, from which they threw shells, and can-
nonaded Fort de la Fayette across the river, all day ; at the
same time two galleys kept up a severe fire on the fort. Tliey
have continued their firing till eleven o'clock to-day. Mean-
while their army marched from Teller s to Verplanck's Point,
on which the fort stands. By a fiag they demanded a surren-
der ; the parley continued two hours, when Captain Armstrong

young Mr. Laurens to recommend it to tbem to arm their domestics, and at the
same time recommending Mr. Laurens as a proper person to head them. This is
said to be the cause of Carolinians being willing to remain in a state of neutrality.
— Gainers Mercttry, July 12.

■ Georgia Gazette, June 10, and Gaine'a Mercury, July 12.

' In the State of New York.

164 DIABY OF THE EEVOLCTION. [1779.

thought fit to surrender. General McDougall has not yet
received a justifiable reason why the fort was given up.

This little fort was built on purpose to secure lung's ferry
from the insults of the enemy's vessels, which frequently inter-
rupted the American boats in crossing. It was small, and would
contain, with conveniency, about a company of men. The re-
doubt was strong, and covered a barbette battery, mounting
three pieces of cannon. We had in the barbette a company of
artillery ; they were all drawn off but a sergeant, a corporal, and
twelve privates. In the redoubt were a captain, two subal-
terns, three sergeants, and forty-four rank and file. Tliey had
provisions and water sufiicient to serve them thirty days.'

A British ofiicer gives the following account of this affair : —
" On Monday morning, the thirty-first of May, part of the army,
British Account i^iidcr the commaud of Major-General Vaughan,
of Fort Lafayette, landed ou thc cast sido of Hudson Eiver, about
eight miles below Verplanck's Point. The corps intended to land
on the west side, under his excellency the commander-in-chief,
with Major-General Pattison, proceeded up within three miles
of Stony Point, where they landed, about which time the rebels,
who had a block-house and some unfinished works on a height
of that point, commanding the ferry, as well as Fort la Fayette
on the east side of the river, set fire to the block-house, and
ran off to the mountains. That corps, about four o'clock in the
afternoon, continued their march round, and took possession
of the heights ; during this time the galleys fired some shot
at Fort la Fayette, on the east side of Verplanck's Point ; these
were returned from the fort, which was a small but complete
work. Artillery was now necessary in order to expedite the
business ; his excellency the general ordered Major-General
Pattison to command the troops and carry on the attack. In
the night, the artillery for that service, notwithstanding great
difliculties from a bad landing place and a very steep preci-
pice, were got iip, and batteries completed by five o'clock in
the morning, when orders were given for firing upon the ene-
my's works ; which, notwithstanding the great distance, was

' New Jersey Gazette, June 9.

1779.] FOET LATAYETTE TAKEN. 165

soon perceived to be effectual. Tlie galleys and batteries con-
tinued the cannonade about two hours, when the main body,
under Major-General Yaughan, having made a detour and
approached the fort, the commander-in-chief being there in
person, sent orders to General Pattison and the galleys to cease
firing, the enemy having surrendered ; they laid down their
arms, became prisoners of war, and on Thursday morning ai--
rived in New York.

" The commodore had, previous to the attack, ordered up the
Yiilture sloop-of-war above the fort, with a row-galley, which
prevented the enemy's retreat from the fort." '

' Gaine's Mercury, June 7

CHAPTEE Y.

JuOTE 1. — Amon& the many errors America has been guilty
of during her contest with Great Britain, few have been greater,
or attended with more fatal consequences to these
States, than her lenity to the Tories. At first it
might have been right, or perhaps political ; but is it not sur-
prising that, after repeated proofs of the same evils resulting
therefrom, it should still be continued ? "We are all crying out
against the depreciation of our money, and entering into meas-
ures to restore it to its value ; while the Tories, who are one
principal cause of the depreciation, are taken no notice of, but
suffered to live quietly among us. "We can no longer be silent
on this siibject, and see the independence of the country, after
standing every shock from without, endangered by internal
enemies. House, America ! your danger is great — ^great fi'om
a quarter where you least expect it. Tlie Tories, the Tories
will yet be the ruin of you ! 'Tis high time they were sepa-
rated from among you. They are now busy engaged in under-
mining your liberties. They have a thousand ways of doing
it, and they make use of them all. "Wlio were the occasion of
this war ? The Tories ! "Who persuaded the tyrant of Britain
to prosecute it in a manner before unknown to civilized nations,
and shocking even to barbarians ? The Tories ! Who pre-
vailed on the savages of the wilderness to join the standard
of the enemy ? Tlie Tories ! "Wlio have assisted the Indians
in taking the scalp from the aged matron, the blooming fair
one, the helpless infant, and the dying hero ? The Tories !
"Who advised and Avho assisted in burning your towns, ravaging
your country, and violating the chastity of your women ? The

1779.] THE TORIES. 167

Tories ! Who are the occasion that thousands of you now
mourn the loss of your dearest connections ? The Tories !
Who have always counteracted the endeavors of Congress to
secxire the liberties of this country ? The Tories ! Who re-
fused their money when as good as specie, though stamped
with the image of his most sacred Majesty? The Tories!
Who continue to refuse it? The Tories! Who do all in
their power to depreciate it ? The Tories I Who propagate
lies among us to discourage the Whigs ? The Tories ! Who
corrupt the minds of the good ^^eople of these States by every
species of insidious coimsel ? The Tories ! Who hold a
traitorous correspondence with the enemy ? Tlie Tories !
Wlio daily sends them intelligence ? The Tories ! Wlio tate
the oaths of allegiance to the States one day, and break them
the next ? Tlie Tories ! Wlio prevent your battalions from
being filled ? Tlie Tories ! Who dissuade men from entering
the army ? The Tories ! Who persuade those who have
enlisted to desert ? Tlie Tories ! Wlio harbor those who do
desert ? The Tories ! In short, who wish to see us conquered,
to see us slaves, to see us hewers of wood and drawers of
water ? The Tories !

And is it possible that we should suffer men, who have
l)een guilty of all these and a thousand other calamities which
this country has experienced, to live among us ! To live
among us, did I say ? Nay, do they not move in our Assem-
blies ? Do they not insult us with their impudence ? Do they
not hold traitorous assemblies of their own ? Do they not
walk the streets at noon day, and taste the air of liberty ? Li
short, do they not enjoy every privilege of the brave soldier
who has spilt his blood, or the honest patriot who has sacri-
ficed his all in our righteous cause? Yes — to our eternal
shame be it spoken — they do. Those very men who wish to
entail slavery on our country, are caressed and harbored among
us. Posterity will not believe it ; if they do, they vnll curse
the memory of their forefathers for their shameful lenity. Can
we ever expect any grateful return for our humanity, if it de-
serves that name ? Believe not a spark of that or any other
vu-tue is to be foimd in the Tory's breast ; for what principle

168 DIAET OF THE EEVOLTFTION. [1779.

can that wretch have who would sell his soul to subject his
country to the will of the greatest tyrant the world at present
produces ? 'Tis time to rid ourselves of these bosom vipers.
An immediate separation is necessary. I dread to think of the
evils every moment is big with, while a single Tory remains
among us. May we not soon expect to hear of plots, assassi-
nations, and every species of wickedness their malice and ran-
cor can suggest ? for what can restrain those who have already
imbrued their hands in their country's blood ? Did not that
villain Matthews, when permitted to live among
us at New York, plot the assassination of General
Washington ? lie did ; he was detected, and had he received
liis deserts, he would now have been in gibbets, instead of tor-
tiiring our unfortunate friends, prisoners in ITew York, with
every species of barbarity. Can we liear this, and still harbor
a Tory among us ? For my own part, whenever I meet one in
the street, or at the coffee house, my blood boils within me.
Their guilt is equalled only by their impudence. They strut,
and seem to bid defiance to every one. In every place, and
in every company, they spread their damnable doctrines, and
then laugh at the pusillanimity of those who let them go un-
punished. I flatter myself, however, witli the hopes of soon
seeing a period to their reign, and a total end to their existence
in America. Awake, Americans, to a sense of your danger.
No time to be lost. Instantly banish every Tory from among
you. Let America be sacred alone to freemen.

Drive far from you every baneful Avretch wlio wishes to see
3'ou fettered with the chains of tyranny. Send them where
they may enjoy their beloved slavery to perfection — send them
to the island of Britain ; there let them drink the cup of slavery
and eat the bread of bitterness all the days of their existence —
there let them drag out a jiainful life, despised and accursed
by those very men whose cause they have had the wickedness
to espouse. Never let them return to this happy land — never
let them taste the sweets of tliat independence Avliieh they
strove to prevent. Banishment, perpetual banishment, should
be their lot.

But, say some, we allow tlie Tories are as bad, and indeed

1779.] THE TOKIES. 169

miicli worse, than you have presented them, but how can we
banish them ? They haA^e taken the oaths, and are under the
protection of the laws. Some of these miscreants, 'tis true,
ha,ve put on a sham repentance, and have dared to call
the Almighty to witness to their perjuries — perjuries I call
tliem, for have we not seen hundreds of them taking the oaths
of allegiance one day and breaking them the next or the first
safe opportunity ? Nay, do they not tell you, to your faces,
tliat no faith is to be kept vrith rebels, with which name they
have still the effrontery to insult you ? Are men who act on
principles like these to be trusted ? Do you think them less
able or less willing to assist the enemy than heretofore ? 'No ;
on the least turn of fortune agamst us, those men whom we
now trust so near us, woiild convince us om* confidence and
lenity had been misplaced ; they would soon forget the oaths
with which they now amuse us — ^they would hail the enemy to
our capital — they would point out those among us who had
been active in our country's cause ; and if any, unfortunately
obliged to stay, and submit to the mercy of the enemy, a pris-
on or dungeon and irons would be their portion. Then, though
too late, we should repent our sliameful lenity and our reliance
on their oaths.

But, say others, who are worked on more by their fears
than their reason, if we send them to the enemy, tliey will
increase their strength, and be embodied against us. Fear not
this ; they may eat the bread and spend the money of their
idol king, but will never be of any material injury to us in
the field. They Avill never be formidable as soldiers. Theii-
wicked principles make cowards of them all. They never
were, they never will be, of service to the enemy in battle.
They never could be brought to storm the works or stand the
fire of Americans in the open field. Their cowardice will se-
cure us from any danger we may apprehend from their em-
bodying against us; but nothing can prevent the thousand
mischiefs they can do while among lis. Think of these things
betimes, before it be too late, and we and our posterity forever
have reason to repent our lenity to the Tories.'

' " A Whig," in the rennsYlrania Packet, August 5.

170 DIAPvT OF THE EETOLIJTION. [1779.

June 19. — Yesterday moming, about four o'clock, thii-ty-
two refugees, commanded by Captain Bounel and otlier officers,
Bonnei's Attack landed at Greenwich, in Connecticut. A thick fog
on Greenwich, favored their entrance, and they marched through
the town undiscovered ; but the rebel guard being at length
alarmed, and imagining the refugees to be more nnmerous
than in fact they were, fled with precipitation before them ;
and so close was the pursuit, that some Avere overtaken and
secured. The inhabitants of the town refused to open their
doors to the refugees, and reduced them to the necessity of en-
tering the windows ; notwithstanding which, they plundered
the houses of nothing but arms and ammunition ; their princi-
pal object being horned cattle, of which they broiight off thirty-
eight, also four horses, and ten or twelve prisoners. Among
the latter is a most pestilent rebel priest, and preacher of sedi-
tion, who, when taken, swore that there was no firearms in his
house, but, upon his being cautioned against equivocation, and
threatened with the consequences wliich would result from
persisting in it, his timid spouse produced his firelock, and a
cartouch box with eighteen rounds in it. Tlie refugees pro-
ceeded about six miles into the country, collecting cattle, &c.
On their return they were attacked by a body of rebels, sup-
posed to consist of about a hundred and fifty, witli two field-
pieces ; but they kept at such a distance, that one loyalist only
Avas wounded by their fire. Before the refugees embarked,
they landed a field-piece, which Avas of great service, and after
engaging the rebels two hours, during which time they ex-
pended all their ammunition, they got safe on board, and ar-
rived at Oyster Bay about noon with their cattle and prisoners.
Tliey Avere obliged to leave a number of the former on the rebel
shore for want of boats to bring them off.'

June 20. — ^Tnis day the South Carolina troops attempted
to force the British lines at Stono Ferry. Tlie numbers within

Battle of ^^'^^ Avithout Avcro rather too nearly equal for the

stono Foiry. eutci-prlse. The Americans attacked boldly, fought

gallantly, and retired in soldierly order. It had been precon-

' Xow Ilampshire Gazette, July 13.

1779.] BATTLE OF STOXO FEEEY. 171

ccrted that seven liundred men should be detached from
Charleston to James' Island, where a show should be made of
a design to land on John's Island, in order to attract the ene-
my's attention, while General Lincoln should attack their re-
doubts and trenches. By some imlucky accident the appoint-
ment was not kept, and the seven hundi'ed did not reach
James' Island till afternoon. This failure enabled the British
to draw a large reinforcement from John's Island to the main,
and broiight theu* number to be nearly eqi;al to that of Gen-
eral Lincoln's troops. Maugre this balk or blunder, the gen-
eral, at half-past seven in the morning, began to assault. Tlie
order of the battle was as follows : General Huger, with the
two Continental brigades, and 2d battalion of light infantry,
commanded by Colonel Henderson, on the left, where the most
strenuous etforts were to be made, opposed to the Highlanders ;
General Sixmter, with the North and South Carolina brigades
of militia, and 1st battalion of light infantry, commanded by
Colonel Malmadie, on the right; the Yirginia brigades of
mihtia formed a corps of reserve.

Colonel Malmadie began the action. On the extension of
General Huger's division to the left, two hundred Highlanders
sallied out, and his warm discharge of musketry was exchang-
ed, but on our light infantry's quick advance to the charge,
the Highlanders shrunk into the woi'ks, leaving twenty-seven
dead, and several wounded on the ground, among the latter a
Captain Bennet. The action continued with great warmth
fifty-six minutes. The enemy's works being found much
stronger than was expected, the American field-pieces making
no impression on them, and intelligence being likewise received
that the enemy had drawn in a reinforcement of five hundred
men from John's Island, General Lincoln gave orders for re-
treating, which the troops performed in good order, carrying
ofl:' their dead and woimded. The light infantry covered the
rear, and maintained so good a countenance, that the enemy
did not attempt to follow more than four hundred yards, and
at a respectable distance.'

' New Hampshire Gazette, August 10. An officer in Lincoln's army gives tlie

172 DIAET OF THE KEVOLUTION. [1779.

June 29. — Last night a party of rebels, supposed from
Horse Neck, lieaded by one Ben Kii'by, wliose father lives on
Long Island, and is known to be an atrocioiis
ra am a on. ^^-^^-^^ about twelve o'clook attacked the house of
Abraham "Walton, Esq., at Musqueto Cove, forced open the
door with the butt ends of their muskets, seized ijpon the per-
son of Mr. "Walton, who was much indisposed in bed, used
him very coarsely, obliged him to walk four miles, plundered
the house, took away all the silver plate they could find, and
demanded Mrs. "Walton's money, which she delivered. From
Mr. "Walton's they proceeded to several of the neighbors, as
Dr. Brooks, Mr. Albert Coles, &c., and carried them all oif to-
gether to Connecticut, where they are to be interrogated by
our old acquaintance General Lewis Morris, of Morrisania.
These vermin, during this jDredatory business, appeared to be
in great perturbation. Kit-by is a native of Long Island, had
taken the oath of allegiance, but on Count D'Estamg's arrival
at Sandy Hook, revolted to Jonathan.'

following account of this battle : — " General Lincoln having received such intelli-
gence of the intention, strength, and position of the enemy, as rendered it ad-
visable to attack them at Stono ferry, did so with great vigor this morning,
about seven o'clock. They were advantageously posted, and covered by three
strong redoubts, and a well-constructed abattis supported by several pieces of ar-
tillery. The picket having been driven in, the attack began on the right, which
was instantly continued through the line. A large body of Highlanders sallied
out on the left of the Americans, but were soon driven into their redoubts with
considerable slaughter. The action continued without intermission fifty-six min-
utes, when, as the general could not draw the enemy out of their lines, (which
were so strongly constructed that the American light field-pieces could make no
impression upon them,) as the force of the enemy was much greater than had
been represented, and as they had, during the engagement, obtained a large re-
inforcement from John's Island, the American troops were withdrawn from the
lines, and all their artillery and wounded brought off. Their loss is inconsiderable.
Many of the wounded are already on duty, and most of the rest, (their wounds
being slight,) it is judged, will soon recover. The enemy's loss is supposed to be
much greater, as the number of their dead were reckoned on the ground ; and it
is observed that their field-pieces were several times left without a man to work
them. Upon the whole, though the Americans had not the wished-for success,
they are convinced that they would have beaten the enemy if they had quitted
their Unes. It is probable from the enemy's sticking close to tliem that they were
of the same opinion." — Neio York Journal, August 2.
' Rivington's Gazette, July 3.

1779.] STOKT OF MKS. BOSS. 173

Should America continaie firmly to oppose tlie tyranny of
Britain, says a correspondent, may not tlie promise of the pres-
ent day sanctify a conjecture, that in a few years The Future of
the rising grandeur of this new world will invite America.
every man from Europe who is not attached to it by landed
property or other similar cause. Tliere is a field opening for
every species of manufacture, art and science, trade and com-
merce. Finely situated for the encouragement and cultivation
of business, every artificer will fly here and transplant with
him the art he possesses. Secure from tyrannical burdens, he
will apply himself assiduously in the prospect of reaping what
he sowed, and will assist in rearing this new republic to a pitch
of grandeur superior, perhaps, to any state now existing.'

Last week died, at Hammersmith, in England, Mrs. Ross,
celebrated for her beauty and constancy. Having met with
opposition in her engagement with Captain Charles ,j,^^ g^ ^^
Ross, she followed liim, in men's clothes, to Amer- ^^^- ^°^'-
ica, where, after such a research and fatigue as scarce any of
her sex could have undergone, she found him in the woods ly-
ing for dead, after a skirmish with the Indians, and with a poi-
soned wound. Having previously studied surgery in England,
she, with an ardor and vigilance which only such a passion
coiild inspire, saved his life by suckmg his woimd, the only ex-
pedient that could have efiected it at the crisis he was in, and
nursing him with scarce a covering from the sky for the space
of six weeks. During this time she remained unsuspected by
him, having dyed her skin with lime and bark ; and keeping to
a man's habit, still supported by the transport of hearing his
unceasing aspu-ations of love and regret for that dear though
(he then thought) distant object of his soul, being charged by
him with transmitting to her (had the captain died) his reniains,
and dying asseverations of constancy and gratitude for the un-
paralleled care and tenderness of his nurse, the bearer of them ;
but, recovering, they removed into Philadelphia, where, as soon
as she had found a clergpnan to join her to him forever, she

' New Hampshire Gazette, June 29.

174 DIAET OF THE EEVOLTJTION. [1779.

appeared as Iierself, the priest accompanying her. They lived
for the space of four years in a fondness almost ideal to the
present age of corruption, and that could only be internipted
by her declining health, the fatigue she had undergone, and
the poison not properly expelled which she had imbibed from
his womid, undermining her constitution. Tlie knowledge he
had of it, and piercing regret of having been the occasion, af-
fecting him still more sensibly, he died with a broken heart
last spring at John's Town, in New York. She lived to return
and implore forgiveness of her family, whom she had distress-
ed so long by their ignorance of her destiny. She died, in
consequence of her grief and affection, at the age of twenty-

THE AMERICAN YICAR OF BRAT.

When Royal George rul'd o'er this land,

And loyalty no harm meant,
For church and king I made a stand,

And so I got preferment.
I still opposed all party tricks,

Tor reasons I thought clear ones,
And swore it was their politics.

To make us Presbyterians.

And this is law I will maintain,
Until my dying day, sir,

Let whatsoeTcr king will reign,
I'll be a Vicar of Bray, sir.

When Stamp Act pass'd the Parliament,

To bring some grist to mill, sir,
To back it was my firm intent.

But soon there came repeal, sir.
I quickly join'd the common cry,

That we should all be slaves, sir,
The House of Commons was a sty.

The King and Lords were knaves, sir.

Now all went smooth as smooth could be,
I strutted and look'd big, sir ;

And when they laid a tax on tea,
I was believed a Whig, sir.

' Gaine's Mercury, October 4.

1779.] THE AMERICAN VICAR OF BKAY. 175

I laugli'd at all the vain pretence

Of taxing at this distance,
And swore before I'd pay my pence,

I'd make a firm resistance.

A Congress now was quiclily call'd,

That we might act together ;
I thought that Britain -would appall'd

Be glad to malse fair weather.
And soon repeal th' obnoxious bill.

As she had done before, sir.
That we may gather wealth at will,

And so be tax'd no more, sir.

But Britain was not quiclily scar'd,

She told another story ;
When independence was declar'd,

I figur'd as a Tory ;
Declar'd it was rebellion base.

To talie up arms — I curs'd it —
For faith it seemed a settled case,

That "we should soon be worsted.

When penal laws were pass'd by vote,

I thought the teat a grievance.
Yet sooner than I'd loose a goat,

I swore the State allegiance.
The then disguise could hardly pass,

For I was much suspected ;
I felt myself much like the ass

In lion's skin detected.

The French alliance now came forth,

The papists flocked in shoals, sir,
Frizeur Marquises, Valets of birth.

And priests to save our souls, sir.
Our " good ally," with tow'ring wing,

Embrac'd the flattering hope, sir.
That we should own him for our king.

And then invite tlie Pope, sir.

When Howe, witli drums and great parade,
March'd through this famous town, sir,

I cried, " May Fame his temples shade
" With laurels for a crown, sir."

176 DIAET OF THE EEVOLUTIOX. [1779.

With zeal I swore to make amends

To good old constitution,
And drank confusion to the friends

Of our late revolution.

But poor Burgoyne's denounced my fate,

The Whigs began to glory,
I now bewail'd my wretched state,

That I was e'er a Tory.
By night the British left the shore.

Nor car'd for friends a fig, sir,
I turn'd the cat in pan once more,

And so become a Whig, sir.

I call'd the army butch'ring dogs,

A bloody tyrant King, sir.
The Commons, Lords, a set of rogues,

That all deserred to swing, sir.
Since fate has made us great and free.

And Providence can't falter.
So long till death my king shall be.

Unless the times should alter.'

June 30. — ^That wretched tool of a bmtisli tyrant, Sir
Harry Clinton, in a proclamation, dated this day, lias declared,
Clinton's NecTo " T^iat all Negroes taken in arms, or upon any
Proclamation, military duty, shall be purchased, and the money
paid to the captors." He likewise iiavites all Negroes to desert
the States, and " take refuge with his army ; " meaning, no
doubt, (like the noted Negro thief, Lord Dunmore,) to put such
refugees in his pocket. However, I am not much concerned,
nor is the cause of freedom much interested, how Sir Henry
and his llaclc, and xoJdte refugees, settle their accounts ; as they
are all villains, it matters little which may prove in the end
the greatest. But justice, honor, and freedom, are concerned
for all men, of whatever nation or kindred, who are in the ser-
vice of the United States, and fight under the banners of free-
dom ; therefore I have long expected some notice from author-
ity, would have been taken of that insulting and villanous
proclamation. Justice demands retaliation for every man in

' Rivington's Gazette, June 30.

1770.] ArrACK ox bedfokd.. 177

the service of these States who may be injured by the niiRan
tyrant or any of his slaves ; and his slave Sir Harry ought to
be told what retaliation lie is to expect from the insidted maj-
esty of our nation in this instance.'

July 2. — Last night, Lieutenant-Colonel Tarleton marched
out with a detachment of cavalry, and early this morning attacked
a party of the rebel Nags, commanded hy a Colonel T.„,^.t„n-s Attack
Sheldon, in the neighborhood of Bedford. Tlie o"' '^'^<"'""'' ^- ■^'•
Americans' situation was in a wood, with a morass on each
side, which was intersected by a road, along M-hich they, with
great precipitancy, retreated. The rebel officers and men quit-
ted their jades, and threw themselves over the fences to gain
the swamp. By so sudden a flight, in such a narrow road, no
great impression could be made, only on the rear, of whom
about twenty-two were killed and womided. Two corps of
rebel militia, which had formed on their rear, at the approach
of the legion, quitted their post, retreating to the morass. The
colonel, finding it impracticable, with his fatigued horses, to
pursue them further, returned to the camp of the rebels, burned
and destroyed their whole baggage, and brought off a standard,
about an hundred helmets, and seventeen prisoners, Avith the
loss of one corporal of the legion killed, and one light horseman
wounded by some skulking militia firing from the fences on his
return. They wei'e cautioned by the commanding officer to
desist from firing, on pain of their houses being consumed, but
still foolhardily persevering in their hostility, he was con-
strained to carry his menaces into execution, and several houses
were accordingly destroyed.

Among the prisoners is one of the Yantasscls, from near
Tarrytown, of a pedigree partly Lidian and partly Batavian.
This despicable caitiff has of late amused himself with cr^^elly
flagellating numbers of inoffensive women, whom he had sus-
pected of frequenting the New York markets. Four of this
hardy varlets brothers are also in safe custody, held as hostages
for four men of the provincial corps who have been made pris-

' An "American Soldier," in the New Yorlv Pacliet, November 18.
Vol. 11.-12

178 DIARY OF THE EEVOLUTIOX. [1779.

oners on tlie liortli liiver, tried and destined to the cord by
tlieir new republican legislature. Tlie Yankees have been for-
mally apprised that the fate of the Vantassel fraternity will de-
pend immediately upon that of the loyal provincials ; when
once the gallows of castigation shall be erected on the side of
loyalty, a period to the public and wanton murder of the
King's friends will most assuredly follow.

One Hunt, formerly a breeches maker of ISTew York, but
of late a vender of the confiscated estates of loyal refugees, an
orator, and a messenger employed by the Congress, was at the
same time delivered to the custody of JVIr. Cunningham," to
sympathize at leisure, en provost, with his mongrel friend Van-
tassel on the disastrous condition of their paper piastres, the
dwindled number of Mr. "Washington's scaled miserables, and
the cliop-fallen covmtenance of each delegate at this time com-
posing the distracted Continental Congress."

July 5. — Yesterday being the anniversary of the day which
gave freedom to the vast republic of America, the Congress,

Catholic the President, and the Council of the State, with
Phiiadoipiiia. the other civil and military officers, and a number
of principal gentlemen and ladies, at twelve o'clock, attended
at the Koman Chapel, in PhiladeljDhia, agreeable to invitation
received from the Minister Plenipotentiary of his Most Chris-
tian Majesty. A Te Deum was performed on the occasion to
the great satisfaction of all present, and his excellency's chap-
lain delivered a short and elegant address to his aiidience, of
which we have been favored with the following translation :

" Gentlemen : — -"We are assembled to celebrate the anniver-
sary of that day which Providence had marked in his eternal
decrees to become the epoeha, of liberty and independence to
the thirteen United States of America. Tliat Being whose al-
mighty hand holds all existence beneath its dominion, undoubt-
edly produces in the depth of his wisdom those great events
which astonish the universe, and of which the most presump-
tuous, thoufi-h instrumental in accomplishing them, dare not at-

' The keeper of the ProTOSt Prison in New York.
^ Rivington's Gazette, July 7.

1779.] THE FKENCU peiest's addkkss. 179

tribute to themselves the merit. But tlie finger of God is still
more peculiarly evident in that happj, that glorious revolu-
tion, M'hich calls forth this day's festivity. He hath sti-uck the
oppressors of a people, free and peaceable, -with that spirit of
delusion, which renders the wicked artificers of their own prop-
er misfortunes. Permit me, my dear brethren, citizens of the
United States, to address you on this occasion. It is that God
— that all-powerful God who hath directed your steps, when
you knew not where to apply for counsel — who, when you
were without arms, fought for you Avith the sword of eternal
justice — -who, when you were in adversity, poured into your
hearts the spirit of courage, of wisdom, and of fortitude, and
who has at length raised up for your support a youtliful sover-
eign whose virtues bless and adorn a sensible, a faithful, and a
generous nation. This nation has blended her interests with
your interests, and her sentiments with yours. She partici-
pates in all your joys, and this day iinites her voice to yours
at the foot of the altars of the eternal God, to celebrate that
glorious revolution which has placed the sons of America
among the free and independent nations of the earth !

" We have nothing to apprehend but tlie anger of Heaven,
or that the measure of our guilt should exceed the measure
of his mercy. Let us then prostrate ourselves at the feet of
the immortal God, who holds the fate of empires in his hands,
and raises them up at his pleasure, or breaks them to dust — -let
us conjure him to enlighten our enemies, and to dispose their
hearts to enjoy that tranquillity and happiness which the revo-
lution we now celebrate has established for a great part of the
Iraman race — ^let us implore him to conduct us by that way
which his Providence has marked out for arriving at so desir-
al)le an end — let us ofli'er unto him hearts imbued with senti-
ments of respect, consecrated by religion, by h\imanity and
patriotism. N'ever is the august ministry of his altars more
acceptable to his divine Majesty than when it lays at his feet
homages, offerings, and vows so pure, so worthy the com-
mon parent of mankind. God will not respect our joy, for he
is the author of it ; nor will ho reject our prayers, for they ask
biit the full accomplishment of the decrees he hath manifested.

180 DIAET OF THE EEVOLUTION. [1779.

Filled with this spirit, let its in concert "with each other, raise
our hearts to the Eternal — let us implore his infinite mercy to
be pleased to inspire the rulers of both nations with the wis-
dom and force necessary to perfect what it hath begun. Let
lis, in a word, unite our voices to beseech him to dispense his
blessing upon the counsels and arms of the allies, that we may
soon enjoy the sweets of a peace which will cement the Union,
and establish the prosperity of the two empires. It is with
this view that we shall cause that canticle to be performed
which the custom of the Catholic Church hath consecrated, to
be at once a testimonial of public joy, a thanksgiving for
benefits received from Heaven, and a prayer for the continu-
ance of its mercies." '

July 7. — On Sunday night last, (4th,) a fleet of British
ships and vessels were observed in Long Island Sound, stand-
Tryon's Descent ^^S towards Ncw Havcu, aud about two o'cloclv
on New Uavcn. ^-^q ncxt momiug the fleet, consisting of the Ca-
milla and Scorpion men-of-war, with tenders, row-galleys, and
transports, to the number of forty-eight, commanded by Sir
George Collier, anchored off West Haven. Tliey had on
board, it is said, between two and three thousand land forces,
commanded by Governor Tryon, who, a little after sunrise,
landed most of the troops on "West Haven Point. Tlie alarm
guns were fired, the drums beat to arms, and every prepara-
tion which the confusion and distress of the inhabitants (on
the near and sudden approach of so terrible an enemy) would
permit, was made for defence and resistance. Tlie bridge on
the western road was taken up, and a niimber of field-pieces
were placed and served to such advantage as prevented the
enemy's approaching the town by that route. They then pro-
ceeded on the west side of the creek, in order to cross at the
bridge on the Amity road, biit were bravely opposed by small
parties of Americans, particularly by about twenty-five under
the command of a lieutenant of the militia, who drove up-
Avards of two hundred of the enemy for near half a mile, and

' New York Journal, July 26.

1779.] TEYON AT KEW IIATEN. 181

retarded tlieir getting into the town for abont three hours, giv-
ing all the women, except those who entertained too favorable
an opinion of them, time to escape.

The British intended to have destroyed the powder and
paper mills, the latter of which several of them entered, but
were obliged to retire (before they had time to do any mis-
chief) by a party of Americans posted there and at the bridge,
who made fourteen of them prisoners. The main body of the
enemy in a column, and two flanking parties, then forded the
stream, some distance below the bridge, and proceeded through
the enclosed grounds to the town. The people, though yet
assembled in very small numbers, kept iip a scattering fire
with them all the way to the entrance of the town, and several
were killed and wounded on each side. Between twelve and
one o'clock the enemy entered the town in the most malignant
disposition, enraged by the opposition from a number much
inferior to their own, proud of their superiority, ashamed of
the difficulty of overcoming the resistance of so small a num-
ber, and cruel in their resentment. Tliey vented tlieir fury
upon the persons and effects of all who unfortunately fell
under their power. They plimdered the houses of every thing
they could carry away or convert to their own use, and broke
or destroyed every whole article of household goods and furni-
ture, together with the window glass and sashes. A few
houses, however, escaped plunder, and a few persons abuse.
These were such as were either noted Tories, or those that had
been particularly recommended by such of those at whose
houses the officers happened to put up, or who were spared
through caprice or accident. Some few of the inhabitants,
both male and female, were noted Tories, who stayed in
through choice, and were glad of such visitants. Some others,
though professing to be Whigs, had conceived a good opinion
of the enemy, and believed they Avould behave well and
politely to those who were peaceable and did not ojipose them.
These, too, stayed in of choice ; a -s'cry small number, and no
women among them that wo have heard of, were imwillingly
caiight in town, having no opportunity to get out. Tlie few
men who stayed in town, most of whom were old, infirm, or

182 DIAEY OF THE EEV0LTJTI02i. [1779.

Tories, were treated witli tlie greatest abiise and insolent fero-
city— strijjped and plundered of every thing valuable about
them, and on the slightest pretences, or even without any pre"
tence at all, inhumanly stabbed with bayonets, shot, or other-
wise murdered, with circumstances of savage and wanton
cruelty. One Kennedy, a noted Tory who rejoiced at their
coming, they plundered of his buckles, &c., and on his ex-
pressing some resentment, immediately stabbed him to death.
A very old man of the name of English, (whose daughter was
busy in providing for their entertainment,) on expression of
reproof, uttered in the most gentle, inoffensive manner, they
murdered by running through the body several times with
bayonets ; and as he lay on his back bleeding on the floor in
the agonies of deatli, his daughter coming in, exclaimed —
" Oh ! how could you murder my poor old father so cruelly ? "
One of them asking, " Is he your father ? " to which she an-
swered, " Oh ! yes, he is my father," the inhuman villain im-
mediately stood and stamped on his breast, and then \ipon his
face, crushing down his nose. Mr. Bears, the elder, a man of
a most respectable and inoffensive character, had been enter-
taining them in his own house, in the most liberal and obliging
manner, treating them with good wine and punch ; one of them
who had been out, came in, and charged him with having fired
a gun out of the window, and presenting a gun, swore he would
kill him for it immediately. Mr. Bears seeing by the ruffian's
motions that he intended to murder him, denied that he had
fired any gun, or knew or believed that any had been fired out
of the house ; and said, " You see I am an old, infirm man ; I
am not able to do you any hurt, and have done nothing to op-
pose you ; all I have is in your hands— why should you take
away my life ? " Unmoved by this remonstrance, the villain
immediately shot him, giving him a mortal wound.

One Tuttle, (a man who on some late very great losses and
misfortunes, occasioned by his having espoused the cause of
the British tyrant, had lost his senses and been in a state of
distraction, not having spoken a word for above six weeks before
the time,) being met by some of the British cut-throats, they
asked him a question, whicli he not regarding, and making no

1Y79.] THE BEITISII AT KEW UATEX. 183

answer, tliej stabbed with a bayonet, which some person of
tlie town seeing, told them the man was crazy, and had not
spoken a word these six weeks. " Damn him," replied the
mnrderer, " it is time he should be made to speak ; " and forc-
ing the point of the bayonet into his mouth, thrust it into his
tongue, drew it out and cut it off. Tlie man died in a few
hours. And so firmly were these British miscreants possessed
of the diabolical spirit of murder, that it did not quit them in
the last stage of life, but went with them into eternity, to at-
tend them at their aj^^ipearance before their Judge ! One Mr.
Gilbert, a man advanced in years, having faithfully attended
his duty in the field, in defence of the just rights and liberty
of his country against the invasion of the bloody tjTants,
happened to give a mortal wound to one of their officers, and
afterwards was taken prisoner by the enemy, and brought to
the man he had wounded. The dying wretch, instigated by
infernal malice and revenge, said to the men under his com-
mand, "• Tliat man has murdered me ; kill him, kill him ! "
And this murderous order was instantly executed accordingly ;
so that both spirits took their de])arture nearly together, and
might, perhaps, together be summoned to make their appear-
ance before the awful tribimal. What a contrast in then- cir-
cumstances !

Tlie behavior of this crew of British miscreants to the un-
happy women, who conceiving too favorable an opinion of
them, and confiding in their politeness and generosity, had
stayed in town and trusted themselves in their hands ; to these
they behaved with worse than savage cruelty, and though
most, if not all of them, were reputed of Tory principles, yet
very few, if any, of the young women, (except some who fled
for protection to a few protected persons) nor not all the old,
or even tlie negroes, escaped violation — some in the presence
of their husbands, and others by great numbers successively.
Some of these unhappy victims they carried off with them in
their vessels. These are some of the exploits of Britons (long
famous for justice and generosity, but now, alas ! how fallen)
at Hew Haven.

After keeping possession of the town all night, (and a night

ISi DIAET OF THE EEVOLUTION. [1779.

of horror it was to tlic inliabitants,) pretty early yesterday
morning a considerable body of militia, being collected under
tbe command of General "Ward, General Hart, and other
officers, and great numbers continually coming in from every
quarter, the enemy unexpectedly and with great stillness and
despatch, retreated with their vessels, taking with them about
twenty of the inhabitants prisoners, with three or four families.
and a few other persons who chose to accompany them.

"While the British General Garth, with his division, plun-
dered iN^ew Haven, Sir George Collier brought his fleet into
the harbor, landed Governor Tryon with the rest of the troops,
at East IIa\'en, and then began a heavy cannonade on the little
fort at Black Kock, which was handsomely defended as long
as it was tenable, and then evacuated. On Tuesday after-
noon the militia collected in such numbers, and pressed so
close upon Governor Tiyon that he thought best to retreat on
board his fleet, and before morning had set sail to the west-
ward.

The abusive and cruel treatment of the inhabitants of New
Haven, the wanton and malicious destruction of that part of
their proj)erty that could not be carried away, and the burning
of the warehouses on the wharf with the vessels that lay there,
as also part of the houses at East Haven, suflicicntly prove
that it was not owing to good will that the town of N^ew Haven
was not burned. The most probable conjecture is, that it was
spared for the sake of the plunder.

The American loss at New Haven is twenty-three killed and
fifteen wounded ; that of the enemy cannot be exactly ascer-
tained, but is known to exceed one himdred, and some rejjort
one hundred and fifty, among which are two adjutants, and
some other officers they much lament. The number of
Americans killed, exceeding that of the wounded, has been
uncommon in former wars, but has frequently happened in this
between Britain and America, and can only bo accounted for
by supposing that they generally murder our wounded men
that fall into their hands.'

' Now York Journal, July 10.

1779.] THE BURNING OF FAUJFIELD. 185

The British fleet, witla tlie same accursed crew of aban-
doned, bloody misci-eants who left New Haven yesterday,
arrived at Fairfield tins afternoon, and continued .j,,^^ Bumin" of
tlieir plundering and destruction. A coiTcspond- Fairfield,
cnt gives the following account of their ravages : — " About
four o'clock on the morning of the seventh of July, the ap-
proach of the fleet was announced by the firing of a gun from
a small fort on Grover's Hill, contiguous to the Sound. Tliey
seemed, however, to be passing by. About seven o'clock we
with pleasure beheld them all to the westward of us, steering,
as we thoiight, for ISTcw York. A very thick fog came on
which deprived us of them till between the hours of nine and
ten, when, the mist clearing away, we beheld the whole fleet
right under our western shore, and some of them close in Avith,
Kinzie's Point. Tliey presently came to anchor, and lay till
aboiit four in the afternoon, when they began to land the
troops a little to the eastward of Kinzie's Point, at a place
called the Pines. Prom thence the troops marched along the
beach until they came to a lane opposite the centre of the
town, through which they proceeded, and in about an hour
paraded in three divisions on the green between the meeting-
house and court house. From thence they detached their
guards, and then dividing into small parties, proceeded on
their infernal business. Tlieir commanding officers Avere Sir
George Collier by sea. Generals Tryon and Garth by land.

" The approach of the fleet was so sudden that but a few
men could be collected, though the alann guns were fired im-
mediately upon the dissipation of the fog. There was no
thought of opposing their landing, as ovir force was nothing
to theirs. Our little party, however, posted themselves so as
to annoy them to the best advantage, expecting that they'
would land at the Point. "Wlien our people found them land-
ing on their left, and marching in their rear to take possession
of the town, they retreated immediately to the court house
green ; and as the enemy advanced through the beach lane,
they gave them such a wai-m reception Avith a field-piece,
which thrcAV both round and grape shot, and Avith their mus-
ketry, as quite disconcerted thcvu for some time. The colimm,

186 DUUY OF THE EEVOLUTION. [1770.

however, quickly recovered its solidity, and advancing rapidly,
forced our small body to retreat to tlic heights back of the
town, where they were joined by numbers who were coming
in from the country. The enemy were likewise galled very
much, as they turned from the back of the lane, by the can-
non which played from Grover's Hill.

" The town was almost cleared of inhabitants — a few wo-
men, some of them ladies of the most respectable families and
character, tarried with a view of saving their property. They
imagined that their sex and character would avail to such a
purpose ; they put such confidence in the generosity of an
enemy who were once famed for humanity and politeness, and
thought that kind treatment and submissive behavior from
them would secure them against harsh treatment and rough
usage. Alas ! they were miserably mistaken ; they every one
bitterly repented their confidence and presumption.

" The parties that were first set loose for rapine and plun-
der, were the Hessians. They entered the houses, attacked the
persons of Whig and Tory indiscriminately, breaking open
desks, triinks, chests, closets, and taking away every thing of
value ; tliey robbed w6men of buckles, rings, bonnets, aprons,
and handkerchiefs; they abused them with the foulest and
most profane language, threatened their lives, presenting bay-
onets to their breasts, not in the least regarding the most
earnest cries and entreaties ; there Avas likewise heard the
dashing of looking glasses, furniture, china, and whatever caiiie
in their power. A nursing infant was plundered of part of
its clothing, while the bayonet was held to his mother.

"Another party that came on were the American refugees,
who, in revenge for their confiscated estates, carried on the
same business. Tliey were not, however, so abusive to the
women as the fonner, but appeared very furious against the
town and country.

"The Britons M'ere the least iuA'ctcratc. Some of the
officers seemed to pity the misfortunes of the country, but in
excuse said they had no other way to gain their authority over
us. Individuals among the British troop were exceedingly
abusive, especially to women. Tliey solicited, they attempted

1779.] THE BUKNING OF FAIEFIELD. 187

their chastity ; and tlioiigh no rape was committed, yet some
were forced to siibmit to the most indelicate and rongli treat-
ment. They exerted their utmost strength in the defence of
their virtue, and some still bear the scars and bruises of the
horrid conflict.

"• Just about an hoiir before sunset the conflagration began
at the house of Josiah Jennings, which was consumed, witli the
neighboring buildings. In the evening, the house of Elijah
Abel, Esq., sheriff of the county, was consumed, with a few
others. In the night, several buildings were burnt in the main
sti'eet. General Tryon was in various parts of the town — the
good women begging and entreating him to spare their houses.
Mr. Sayre, the Church of England's missionary, a gentleman
firmly and zealously engaged in the British interest, and who
has siiffered considerably in their cause, joined the women in
their entreaties, begged the general to spare the town; but
his request was denied. He then begged that a few houses
might bo kept as a shelter for some who could provide habita-
tions nowhere else ; this was likewise denied him. At length
Mr. Tryon consented to spare the buildings and property of Mr.
Burr and the writer of this epistle. They had both been plun-
dered ere this. He likewise said that the houses of public
worship should be spared. He was far from being in a good
temper of mind during the whole affair. General Garth, at
the other end of the town, treated the inhabitants with as
much humanity as his errand Avould admit of.

" At suurise, some considerable part of the town was stand-
ing ; but in about two hours the conflagration became general.
The burning pirates carried on their business with horrible
alacrity, headed by two or three persons who were born and
bred in the neighboring towns. All the town, from the bridge
towards Stratford to the Mill river, (a few houses excepted,)
were consumed.

"About eight o'clock the enemy soimded a retreat. The
meeting-house and a few other liouses were standing, which
afforded some pleasure amidst our woe ; but the rear guard,
consisting of a banditti of the vilest that was ever let loose
among men, set fire to every thing which General Tiyon had

1S8 DIAET OF THE EEVOLUTION. [1779.

left — tlie large and elegant meeting, the ministers' honses, Mr.
Burr's, and other houses which had received protection. Tliey
tore Tryou's j^rotections in pieces, damn'd " General Try on and
his protections," and abused women most shamefully ; they
ran off in a very disgraceful manner. Happily oiir men came
in, and extinguished the flames in several hoiTses, so that we
are not entirely destroyed. The Church of England building
was destroyed ; but by whom, or at what time, I am not able
to say.

" Tlie rear guard, which behaved in such a scandalous man-
ner, were chiefly Germans called Jagers, which carry a small
rifle-gun, and fight in a skulking manner, much like our Indi-
ans. Tliey may emphatically be called the sons of plunder
and devastation.

" Our fort yet stands. The enemy sent a row galley to
silence it, and there was a constant firing between them all
night. One or two attempts were made to take it by parties
of troops, but it was most bravely and obstinately defended
by Lieutenant Isaac Jarvis, who had but twenty-three besides
himself. The militia followed the bloody mcendiaries to the
place of embarkation, where they galled them considerably.
The embarkation took place about tM-elve o'clock, and the ci'uel
foe set sail for Long Island about two o'clock in the afternoon.
Many were killed on both sides ; the number cannot be ascer-
tained. They carried with them several prisoners, but no per-
son of distmction. Old Mr. Solomon Sturgis, an L'ish servant
belonging to Mr. Penficld, and an old negro man belonging to
Mr. Jonathan Lewis, Avere put to the bayonet. Mr. Job Bar-
tram was shot through the breast ; the ball came out just un-
der his shoulder-blade ; he fought bravely, as did also many
others." '

' New London Gazette, August 4. The British troops, after destroying Fair-
field, crossed the Sound to Huntington, Long Island, where they remained until
the eleventh of July, when they appeared before Norwallv. Their subsequent
operations are thus recorded in Gaine's M'crcurj', of August 12: — "The sun being
nearly set before the 54th, the Landgrave's regiment, and the Jagers were in the
boats, it was near nine o'clock in the evening when the troops landed at the Cow
Pasture, a peninsula on the east of the harbor, within a mile and a half of the^
bridge which formed the communication between the east and west parts of Nor-

1779.] TRYON AT FAIEFIELD. ISO

A British writer gives the following account of tlie burn-
ing of Fairfield: — "About five o'clock in the afternoon the
British troops landed about a mile and a half British Account of
west of the fort at Fairfield. One division, con- raMe'id? "
sisting of Jagers, flank companies of guards, Fanning's coi-ps.
and regiment of Landgrave, Avith General Trjon, moved up
in columns to gain the right of the town, and were cannonaded
from the fort hill above it, without suffering any loss. The
advanced corps drew up a little short of the town, where
they proposed remaining; but the enemy bringing a six-
pounder on their left to enfilade them, they were obliged to
move towards, and drive the enemy from the lower heights in
front of the town, which they occupied with this field-piece.
This they efiected with little loss and diflicnlty, Jonathan very
prudently removing himself to the upper heights, at a very
decent distance, where he amused himself with firing long shot
till about eight o'clock ; when, upon the approach of General
Garth Avith another division, he thought proper to retire en-
tirely, after a narrow escape of being cut off by the forces

walk, nearly equally divijcd by a salt creek. The King's American regiment
being unable to join the army before three the next morning, the troops lay that
night on their arms.

" In the march at the first dawn of day, the 54th led the column, and soon fell
in with the rebel outposts, and driving the enemy with great alacrity and spirit,
dispossessed them of Drummond (Grummon) Hill, and the heights at the end of
the village, east from and commanding the bridge.

" It being now about four o'clock in the morning and the rebels having taken
post within a random cannon shot upon the hills on the north, the troops halted,
and the second division landing at the Old Wells, on the west side of the harbor,
had advanced and formed the junction.

" General Garth's division passed the bridge by nine, and proceeded to the
north end of the village, from whence, and especially from the houses, there had
been a fire for five hours upon our advanced guards. The fusileers, supported by
the light infantry of the guards, began the attack, and soon cleared that quarter,
pushing their main body and a hundred cavalry from the northern heights, and
taking one piece of their cannon.

" After many salt pans were destroyed, whale bo.ats carried on board the fleet,
and the magazines, stores, and vessels set in flames, by which the greater part of
the dwelling-houses were consumed, the advanced corps were drawn back, and
the troops retired in two columns to the place of their first debarkation, and un-
assaulted took ship and returned to Huntington Bay."

190 DIAEY OF THE KEVOLUTION. [1T79.

under that general. Not a single lionse Avas touclied, as the
general liad taken some pains the two days before to circulate
their address and proclamation ; ' and New Haven, though so
fine a town, and of so much use to the rebellious colonists, was
spared, in hopes these deluded people would at last be made
sensible that lenity, whilst it could be shown without pre-
judice to ourselves, was the wish of British souls and British
commanders. New Haven, except one or two storehouses
and one or two small vessels, was left unhurt.

' The following is the address to the inhabitants of Connecticut by Commodore
Sir George Collier and Major General William Tryon; — "The ungenerous and
wanton insurrection against the sovereignty of Great Britain, into which this
colony has been deluded by the artifices of desperate and designing men, for
private purposes, might well justify in you every fear which conscious guilt could
form, respecting the intentions of the present armament.

" Your towns, your property, yourselves, lie still within the grasp of that
power, whose forbearance you have ungenerously construed into fear ; but whose
lenity has persisted in its mild and uoble efforts, even though branded with the
most unworthy imputation.

"The existence of a single habitation on your defenceless coast, ought to bo a
constant reproof to your ingratitude. Can the strength of your whole province
cope with the force which might at any time be poured through every district in
your country? You are conscious it cannot. Why then will you persist in a
ruinous and ill-judged resistance ?

" We have hoped that you would recover from the pihrensy which has distract-
ed this unhappy country ; and we believe the day to bo now come when the
greater part of this continent begin to blush at their delusion. You, who lie so
much in our power, afford the most striking monument of our mercy, and there-
fore ought to set the first example of returning to allegiance.

" Reflect upon what gratitude requires of you ; if that is insufficient to move
you, attend to your own interest. We offer you a refuge against the distress
which you universally acknowledge broods with increasing and intolerable weight
over all your country.

" Leaving you to consult with each other upon this invitation, We now do de-
clare,— That whosoever shall be found, and remain in peace at his usual place of
residence, shall be shielded from any insult, either to his person or his property,
excepting such as bear offices, cither civil or military, under your present usurped
government: of whom it will bo further required, that they shall give proofs of
their penitence and voluntary submission ; and they shall then partake of the like
immunity.

" Those, whose folly and obstinacy may slight this favorable warning, must
take notice, that they are not to expect a continuance of that lenity which their
inveteracy would now render blamable." — Rivincjton^s Oasette, July 7.

1779.] BUKNIXCr OF FAIEFIELD. 191

'• Fninfluenced by this gentle treatment, their hearts seemed
hardened like the hearts of Pharaoh's servants. Fairiield, till
six in the evening, remained as before, when an order came
for the advanced troops to retire a little nearer the town.
Jonathan, imagining the dread of him had inspired this mo-
tion, felt very bold, and advancing nearer, got in behind some
houses in front of the town, and flattering himself he was then
in security, threw his shot something thicker about him. The
troops faced about, drove Jonathan from his fancied fortress,
and then set fire to these few alone which had emboldened and
afforded cover to their enemies ; these houses Avere in front of
the to\n\. General Tryon then sent a flag to them by the
clergyman of the place, offering, if they would return to their
allegiance, the town should be spared, and those who would
come in should remain unmolested. This generous offer Jona-
than did not think fit to comply with, but cannonaded his own
town all night ; the consequence of which was, in the morn-
ing the troops set it on fire, and they re-embarked, leaving
their conduct in these two mstauces to inspire proper reflec-
tions in their enemies." '

JrLY 10. — Still the rebels clierish one another with the
assurances of eating their next Christmas dinner in I^ew York,
(peradvcnture in the provost.) Indeed, Mr. Wash- g^^^^ ^^ Liberty in
ington has declared he will very soon visit that ^""^ "^°''^-
capital with his army, as it is confessed, without the least re-
serve, there are many Sons of Lieeety in New York that hold
a constant intercoiirse and correspondence with the commander-
in-chief of the rebel army, from whom he is supplied with ac-
curate communications of all arrivals and departures, and of
every thing daily cai-rying on there, both in the military and
civil branches. Tlie rebel prisoners on Long Island, (notwith-
standing being indulged with their parole,) and the white-
washed inhabitants hold a constant correspondence -with the
inhabitants of Connecticut ; and, through their means, goods to
great amount are every week conveyed to them. It provokes

' Eivington's Gazette, July 14.

192 DIAEY OF THE EEVOLUTION. [1779.

the Avell affected to government, at a distance from JSTew York,
to perceive sucli comfort and accommodations afforded to the
most ungrateful and insidious people on earth.'

July 15. — ^The British, in conjunction with their allies, the
Tories, seem desirous to extirpate religion, with the Whigs, out
of the country. An arduous task, indeed ! They
manifest peciiliar malice against the Presbyterian
churches, having, during this month, burnt three in ISTew York
State, and two in ConnecticTit. What, Britons ! because we
won't worship your idol King, will you prevent us from wor-
shipping the King of kings ? Heaven forbid ! We despair
not of being able soon to rebuild our churches ; till then the
canopy of heaven, a barn, or the shady woods will serve the
purpose. If you burn our elegant houses, we will dwell in
huts till we can build better. We have too long imitated your
excesses ; now you teach us economy and humility."

July 16. — ^Tnis morning. General Wayne, Avith the light
infantry, consisting of about twelve hundred men, drawn from
Wayne takes ^■'^^ wholc of tlic American army on each side of
stony Point, ^j-^q Is ortli Puvcr, surpriscd the British garrison,
consisting of five hundred men, commanded by a Colonel
Johnson, in their works at Stony Point, on the west side of
King's Ferry, and made the whole prisoners, with the loss of
four Americans killed, and General Wayne slightly wounded.^
Tlie detachment marched in two divisions, and about one
o'clock came up to the enemy's pickets, who, by firing their
pieces, gave the alarm, and with all possible speed ran to the
fort, from every quarter of which, in a short time, they made
an incessant fire upon our people. They, with fixed bayonets
and uncharged pieces, advanced with quick but silent motion,
through a heavy fire of cannon and musketry, till getting over
the abbatis, and scrambling up the precipices, the enemy
called out, " Come on, ye damn'd rebels ; come on ! " Some

' Rivington's Gazette, July 10. ^ New Hampshire Gazette, August 10.

' New Hampshire Gazette, July 27.

1779.] STONY POINT TAKEN. 193

of our people softly answered, " Don't be in sucli a huny, my
lads ; we ■will be with you presently." And accordingly, in a
little more than twenty minutes from the time the enemy be-
gan first to fire, our troops, overcommg all obstructions and
resistance, entered the fort. Spurred on by their resentment
of the former cruel bayoneting, which many of them and oth-
ers of our people had experienced, and of the more recent
and savage barbarity of plundering and burning unguarded
towns, murdering old and imarmed men, abusing and forcing
defenceless women, and rediicing multitudes of innocent people
from comfortable livings to the most distressful want of the
means of subsistence ; — deeply affected by these cniel injuries,
cm' people entered the fort with the resolution of putting every
man to the sword ; but the cry of " Mercy ! mercy ! dear
Americans ! mercy ! quarter ! brave Americans ! quarter !
quarter ! " disarmed their resentment in an instant ; insomuch
that even Colonel Johnson, the commandant, freely and can-
didly acknowledges that not a drop of blood was spilt un-
necessarily. Oh, Britain ! turn thine eye inward, — behold,
and tremble at thyself ! '

Colonel Fleury, who commanded the van-guard and be-
haved with his usual gallantry, was the first man who mounted
the bastion and struck the British flag. All our oflicers and
]nen behaved with remarkable bravery. They were even enm-
lous to go upon the Forlorn Hope, which was decided by lot,
when one gentleman thereby exchided from that command,
spoke of himself as a child of misfortune from the cradle,
while the other leaped for joy.

Of the Americans, about twenty-five are killed, and up-
wards of fifty wounded, among whom are General "Wayne,

' A correspondent in England says : — "The American account of Stony Point
is as pompons a parade of tlieir courage as tlie French displayed of their ma-
noeuvres in our channel. The fact is, that they surprised the garrison, and bay-
oneted the men after the surrender was made. Had Colonel Johnson and his
party been prepared for their reception the Americans would have fled at the very
sight of the British bayonets ; and in that case have as disgracefully retreated
without making the attempt, as they shamefully afterwards abandoned the con-
quest they had made." — UpcoU, v. 389.
Vol. II.— 13

194 DIAKT OF THE EEVOLtTTION. [1779.

who received a slight wound on the side of his face ; ' Colonel
Hay, of Pennsylvania, a wound in his thigh ; and of Colonel
Meigs's regiment. Captain Phelps, wounded in the arm ; Cap-
tain Selden, badly in the hip ; Lieutenant Palmer, in the arm
and thigh ; Ensign Hall, in the hip, and his arm broken ; five
of the wounded privates are dead, the rest likely to recover.

Of the enemy killed, aboiit sixty ; and of whom was Colonel
Few, of the 17th grenadiers, who was too obstinate to submit,
and another officer who has died of his wounds. Their wounded
are also supposed to be about sixty, among whom are two or
three officers. The prisoners of the enemy amount to four
hundred and five, including the commandant, Lieutenant-Col-
onel Johnson, of the 17tli regiment, and twenty-three other
officers, all of whom are to be sent off to Pennsylvania.

Among the prisoners are two sons of Beverly Eobinson, (of
ISTew York, now a Colonel in the service of the enemy against
his country !) and a son of the late Kev. Dr. Anchniuty, late
rector of Trinity Church. It was with great difficulty these
three were saved by our officers from being sacrificed to the
resentment of the soldiery, who being aboiit to retaliate upon
them with bayonets, (the usage our people have repeatedly
received from the British troops,) they begged for mercy, and
to excite pity, said they were Americans. This plea proving
them to be traitors as well as enemies, naturally increased the
fury of the soldiers, who were upon the point of plunging
bayonets into their breasts, when they M'ere restrained by
their officers.''

' When the gallant General "Wayne received his wound in storming the fort
at Stony Point, lie ■was a good deal staggered, and fell upon one knee. But the
moment he recOTered himself, he called to his aids, who supported him, and said,
"Lead me forward, if I am mortally wounded, let me die in the fort." — Kew
Hampshire Gazette, September Y.

- New York Journal, August 2. Eivington, in the Royal Gazette of July 21,
gives the following "best account yet," of this action : — " We are informed that
a large detachment of the rebel army, commanded by Mr. Wayne, last Friday morn-
ing, about one o'clock, attacked the fort at Stony Point, on the Hudson River,
garrisoned by the llth regiment, two companies of grenadiers of the Vlst, one
company of Colonel Beverly Robinson's regiment, under the command of Lieu-
tenant-Colonel Johnson of the l7th regiment. The enemy were repulsed several

1779.] STOXY POINT. 195

Nothing can exceed the spirit and intrepidity of our brave
countrymen in storming and carrying tlie British fortress at
Stony Point. It demonstrates that the Ameri- The stormin.' of
cans have soldiers equal to any in the world ; and ^'■""^ ^°'"'-
that they can attack and vanquish the Britons in their strongest
Avorks. IS^o action during the war, performed by the British
military, has equalled this coup de main. Tlie generosity
shown by our men to the vanquished, when the parties of our
enemy are rej^eating their savage barbarities, whenever they
come by surprise, is imexampled. How much more honorable
and manly is it to carry fortresses sword in hand, than to burn
defenceless towns, and distress unarmed citizens, and even
women and children ? What action has Clinton to boast of,
this campaign, that may be compared with this master-piece
of soldiership by General "Wayne? And how much provoca-
tion had he to have bayoneted tlie whole British garrison,
when he recollected how cruelly the British had massacred
the men he commanded some time ago, who fell into their
merciless hands ? How many of these brave men were killed
in cold blood, after they could make no resistance? Clin-
ton must be highly chagrined at this conquest, and employ
some good pen to disguise and palliate this aifair at the court
of London. He has exceeded Howe in the ferocity and sav-
ageness of his exploits ; but perhaps will not succeed better
than he in accomplishing the designs of Britam.'

times, and lost a considerable number killed on the spot, but being supported by
Mr. Washington with the main body of the rebel army, the garrison gave way to
a Tast superiority of numbers. The loss of the enemy, though considerable, is
not yet known.

"Of the British troops, thirty were killed, including Colonel Few of the 17th
regiment, forty-eight wounded, and two hundred and six prisoners. On Sunday
some rebel provision vessels attempting to pass down the river by Verplank's to
Stony Point, were prevented by a severe cannonade from Lieutenant-Colonel
Webster, who commands at, and has very cfTectually defended that post, which is
now become perfectly secure, as the rebels, baffled in their attempts upon Ver-
plank's Point, on Monday evacuated Stony Point, and it was that evening again
taken possession of by the British forces. Amongst the enemy's wounded, was
Mr. Wayne, who commanded the attack."

' New Hampshire Gazette, July 27.

196 DIARY OF THE EEVOLUTIOX. [1T79.

July 20. — We have just seen a rebel newspaper wliicli con-
tains a very enrious article relative to the late attack on Stony
Capture of stony 1*°™*- Th^ article is written in that turgid style,
Point Criticized. .^^^ ^^ ^^^^^ i^^^^q gpij,j|- ^f triumph, which distin-
guish almost all the rebel publications, on the acquisition of
any trifling advantage ; and is at once a just sample of the
eloquence and temper of the rebels. It begins thus : " Our
gallant light infantry, who, under the brave, intrepid General
Wayne, have gained immortal honor by storming the British
garrison at Stony Point, were composed of drafts from each
State. The firm coolness with which they marched," &c. It
proceeds in the same style of bombast and exaggeration to de-
scribe the amazing fortitude, wonderful prowess, and aston-
ishing hiimanity which marked tlie conduct of the rebel troops,
from the beginning to the end of the whole business.

Far be it from me to detract from any bravery or humanity
which may have been shown by the rebels on this occasion. I
respect those qualities even in an enemy ; and so far as the
rebels exhibited either, or both, at Stony Point, (of which,
however, I am unable to judge at present,) I give them full
credit.

Biit the writer of the above article was not aware that by
extolling the bravery and humanity of General Wayne and
his men so extravagantly, he induces his readers to conclude
that such instances are very rare among the rebels. People
who would make a figure, and have but slender means, must
make the most of the little they possess. This writer tells us
that the men destined for the attack at Stony Point " were
composed of drafts from each State ; " and Ave are elsewhere
assured that they amounted to upwards of twelve hundred —
some say to double that niimber. Is it so extraordinary a
matter that all the States, as he calls them, should furnish
twelve liundred men, (reckoning them at tlie lowest calcula-
tion, and of whom many Avere Euroj^eans,) Avho, in the dead
of the night, and after taking every precaution to conceal their
design — CA'en killing all the dogs in the neighborhood of Stony
Point to prevent an alarm — is it extraordinary, I say, that
such a body of men, thus picked, and culled, and circum-

1779.] GENEEAL WAYNE CKITICIZED. 197

stanced, -n-oiild venture to attack about four hiandred men ?
for, if my information be right, the effective men at Stony-
Point did not exceed that number. Among troops accustomed
to face and meet their enemies, I am sure this would not be
esteemed any mighty affair. AVhen tlie British troops, not
amounting to twelve hundred men, really stormed the rebel
forts at the Highlands, in open day — forts that were defended
by a gan-ison three times as numerous as that at Stony Point — •
there was not half so much said about it as there is said here
of General Wayne's exploit. Such things are expected from
British troops : there is nothing unusual in it, and therefore
little is said about it.

Our writer reminds me of a passage in De Solis's history
of the conquest of Mexico. AVhile Cortcz was siibduing that
empire, a Spaniard was killed in a fray with the natives. Tlie
Mexicans got possession of the corpse, and viewed it with a
mixture of admiration and joy : admiration at their own prow-
ess in killing a Spaniard, and joy to find tliat the Spaniards
were vulnerable and mortal ! Similar to this is an incident
related by Joseplms, when Titus besieged Jerusalem; The
Eoman general constructed works, and planted engines on
them to batter the walls. The Jews made a sally, destroyed
the works, and burnt the engines. Tliey exulted most extrav-
agantly on this little success, which only served to confirm
their obstinacy, hasten their ruin, and stimulate them to greater
cruelties against their wi-etched brethren, who groaned under
all the horrors of foreign and domestic war.

Tliis writer is so hugely elevated with the affair at Stony
Point, that he thinks Britain should now confirm the inde-
pendency of America publicly ! Can any one be so stupid as
to imagine that such a trifling affair could be any way decisive
at present, or influence the conduct of Britain ? Or are inci-
dents of this kind umisual in the course of Avar ? I could men-
tion several instances where outposts belonging to the greatest
generals that ever led armies into the field, have been attacked
and carried ; and in wars, too, where those generals have been
most successful. People wlio are so easily elevated, betray
their own wealaiess, both in judgment and resources, and gen-

198 DIAET OF THE EEVOLUTIOX. [17Y9.

erally are easily depressed. Tlieir minds, like a pendulum,
will vibrate to either extreme equally, as circumstances occur ;
and it is an indubitable proof how low the afiairs of the rebels
are sunk, when so trivial an advantage is puffed off with so
much parade. It evidently shows that they are obliged to
seize every little incident which can serve, by exaggeration, to
support the flagging spirits of their party.

Our writer goes on to extol the " humanity of the rebels,"
and contrasts it with the " savage barbarity of burning un-
guairded towns, deflowering defenceless women," &c. As far
as truth will permit, I am willing to believe, for the honor of
America, that the rebels on this occasion relaxed in their usual
barbarity. As it is the first instance, it should be recorded,
though it would have lost nothing had it been expressed in less
exaggerated terms.

Tlie rebels have hitherto been infamous for their wanton
cruelties. Tlieir brutal treatment of Governor Franklin, and
many other persons of distinction whom I could mention, —
their barbarity to loyalists in general, and at this present hour
— hanging men for acting according to the dictates of con-
science— whipping men almost to death because they will not
take up arms — publicly whipping even women, whose luTsbands
would not join the militia — ^their confiscations, fines, and im-
prisonments ; these things which they daily and indubitably
practice, very ill agree with the character of humanity so lav-
ishly bestowed on them by this writer. Nothing but a long,
very long series of conduct the reverse of this can wipe oS the
infamy which they hereby incurred.

Tlie charge of " deflowering defenceless women " is one of
those deliberate, malicious falsehoods which are circulated by
the rebels, purely to iacensethe inhabitants against the British
troops. As to burning " tmguarded towns," this writer should
know that the King's troops burn no houses except public mag-
azines, and those from which they are fired at, or otherwise an-
noyed. This was lately the case at Fairfield and Norwalk, the
towns to which, I suppose, the author alludes ; and when houses
are thus converted into citadels, it is justifiable to biu-n them
by the rules of war among all civilized nations.

1YY9.] STONY POINT. 199

New Haven -was in the possession of the King's troops, yet
they did not burn it. Tlie reason was, they were not fired at
from the lionses during their approach to, or retreat from, the
town. Some of the inhabitants, however, did what would
have justified the British troops in consigning it to the flames.
Sentries placed to guard particular houses have been fired at
from those very houses, and killed. An ofiicer of distinction
took a prisoner who was on horseback, and had a gun ; tlie
prisoner apparently submitted, but watching for an opportu-
nity, he discharged his gun at the ofiicer, and wounded him.
Tlie wounded officer was carried into an adjoining house to
have his wound di-essed ; the owner of the house seemed to be
kind and attentive to the ofiicer ; the latter, in gratitude for
his attention, ordered the soldiery, on his departure, to be par-
ticularly careful of the house, that no injuries shoiild be ofiFered
to it. Yet, no sooner was the officer gone, and at the distance
of fifty yards, than this very man discharged a loaded musket
at him. These are samples of rebel humanity, which sweetly
harmonize with our writer's sentiments.

In fine, this writer, and all others of his stamp, should re-
member that the colonies are now in a state of revolt and
rebellion against their rightful sovereign. Tlie British legisla-
tm-e is unalterably determined to bring them back to their
allegiance. Tlie most generous overtures have been made to
them— a redress of grievances, an exemption from taxes, and
a free trade, have heen offered. These liberal terms would
indubitably make America the happiest, freest, and most flour-
ishing country in the world. But the American Congress
have madly and insolently rejected these terms. The Con-
gress, therefore, and their partisans, are justly chargeable,
before God and the world, with all the calamities which Amer-
ica now sufi'ers, and with all those other and greater calamities
which it will probably hereafter suflcr in the course of this
unnatural contest.'

August 3. — This morning, arrived at Boston, in Massachu-

' " Candidas," in the New York Gazette, August 16.

200 DIAET OF THE REVOLUTION. [1779.

setts, a Frencli frigate of tliirty-two guns, from France, in
whicli came passengers his excellency tlie Chevalier de la
chcTaiier de la LuzEENE, Plenipotentiary from his most Christian
"^"BostoS™" " Majesty, to the United States, with his secretary,
&c. ; as also the Honorable John Adams, Esqnire, late a com-
missioner from the United States to the Court of France. His
excellency and suite landed on General Hancock's wharf,
about five o'clock this afternoon, where they were received by
a committee from the Honorable Council of the State, who
were waiting with carriages for their reception. They were
conducted to tlie house late the residence of the Continental
general. He was saluted by a discharge of thirteen cannon,
on his landing, from the fortress on Fort Hill, and every other
mark of respect shown him which circumstances would admit."

SIR HENKT CLINTON'S SOLILOQUY,

Upon his recovery from the phrensy into which he was thrown hy the forming of
Stony Point.
" To fight, or not to fight, that is the qliestion ! "

Whether 'tis best within " Manhattan's isle,

Snug to encamp, secure from war's alarms!

Or, mounting Hudson's oft-attempted wave,

Encircled with my British German bands,

At once let loose the terrors of my arm,

And crush rebellion at its farthest source !
" To fight — perchance to beat ! Ah, there's the rub."

(Conscience makes a coward of Sir Harry!)

Well I remember the opprobrious time.

When Tryon and Sir George, by my command,

O'er poor Connecticut's defenceless towns

Pour'd out the flaming vials of my wrath,

Murder'd the old, and plundered the infirm ;

Torrent-like, when brave Wayne's determined corps

Resistless rush'd o'er all my boasted works,

And in an instant quench'd the British fire !

What dread ideas fill my tortured brain!

West Point still rises to my troubled view !

Unnerves my heart ! and damps my ardent passion

For the charge !

There proud America's undaunted host

With vict'ry flush'd, and pulses beating high,

' Pennsylvania Packet, August 17. " York Island.

1779.] THE CRISIS. 201

Unfurl their glitt'ring ensigns to the air,
And claim, impatient claim, the promis'd fight !
There god-like Washington triumphant stands,
Smiles at ray losses and defies my power !
What's to be done ? — at Charleston baffled twice,
At Monmouth routed with a dire disgrace !
Britannia blushing ! — my sovereign's hopes,
So flatt'ring late, all vanishing to nought !
" It must be so ! " soon as to-morrow's sua
Thro' Ether darts his horizontal rays.
Strait I'll embark !

Unfold the spreading canvas to the winds.
And bend my course to England's peaceful shore,
Join Gage, Burgoyne, and Howe, ill fated chiefs.
Who trod before me this disastrous round ;
Beneath their wither'd laurels lay me down.
And sleep the hours away ! nor dream again
Of conquering Freedom's all-subduing sons ! '

During the course of the present war, the situation of our
public affairs, as well as the enemy's, has several times been so
nicely critical, that each alternately seemed to be

, T , , -, . ■, , The Crisis.

upon the balance between total rum and complete
victory ; and the event has been determined by causes so
wholly unforeseen and beyond human power, that he must be a
strangely blind and inattentive observer who does not discern
and ascribe it to the overruling hand of Divine Providence.
Hence we may infer, that though our cause being just. Heaven
is on ovtr side, and will finally ci'own it with such success, yet
that the general prevalence of wickedness among us renders
us unfit for the blessings of peace, lengthens out the calam-
ities of war upon us, and prevents the success of our arms.
If, then, we are really friends to the rights and freedom of
our country, let every one of us forsake the evil of his ways,
that draws down and continues the judgments of God upon
the land. Let us consider that the highest interest of every
individual indispensably requires it, and together with the
common interest of our country unitedly claims it at our
hands. Let tts consider that while we continue in any vicious
practices, we are not only ruining ourselves, but our country :

' " S." in the New York Packet, August 19.

202 DIAEY OF THE EEYOLUTION. [1Y79.

we are troublers of the land, and the cause of its piiblic calam-
ities ; we prevent the success of its arms, (the return and bless-
ing,) and do it more harm than all its foreign enemies. But
if we reform our lives, and put away evil from among us, par-
ticularly that iincharitableness which shows itself in extortion,
preying upon one another's necessities, and many other ways
of injustice and oppression, together with debauchery, obscen-
ity, horrible profaneness, and other gross immoralities, and
act like reasonable creatures who must give an account of their
actions, we may safely rely on Heaven for success in all our
enterprises — for the return of peace and all its blessings — for
happy lives and comfortable deaths.'

A GENTLEMiAN from America observed in a large company
in France, that the Americans were all enthusiasts for liberty.
"No," said a French Whig, "that is impossible; for if only
one-half of them were inspired with a proper enthusiastic
affection for liberty, they would have risen long ago as mie
man, and not have suffered a single British soldier to have re-
mained on the continent." °

August 13. — A weitee in' the London Evening Post of
this day, says : — " If freedom of speech, and the most vigorous
The opposition to ministers, were ever necessary in a
Court of England. fj,gg eouutry, they are certainly at tliis awful pe-
riod ; a period which not only marks the decline of a great
empire, but the immediate fall of it ; a period in wliich one
man seems to have usurj^ed the sole direction of government ;
and having procured a set of profligate associates to go through
thick and thin with him, has bribed the senate, and deluded
the people into an approbation of measures M-liicli liumanity
shudders at, and common sense condemns.

" A Avriter who has lately taken up the pen to expose the
secret designs of tlie crown against the liberties and grandeur
of Britain, in speaking of tlie contest with America, observes
that, ' to the cruelty and injustice of drawing the sword, were
added insult and calumny. Both Houses of Parliament were

' New York Journal, September 6. ° Pennsylvania Packet, August 1.

I'r'r9.] IIAiULTON ON THE EEVOLfTION. 203

prodigal in tlieii' abuse of the Americans, -whom tliej stigma-
tized as co-n-ards and blocldieads. Allowing these stigmas to
have been just, is it not a reflection (says the writer) to have
sued to these very cowards and blocklieads for peace, after a
contest of foirr years, in which the strength of this coimtry had
been in vain exerted to subjugate them ? '

" To tliis passage a bold but admirable note is subjoined, as
it proves the author to have a perfect knowledge of the man, of
whom it may be said, ' Omnis ilia tempestas Cfesare impulsore
exercitata est ; ' we have extracted it for the perusal of our read-
ers. ' Lord Sandwich in one House, and General Grant in the
other, were the first to brand the Americans as cowards. The
foi-mer summoned the ghost of Sir Peter Warren from its silent
mansion, in support of his illiberal reproach, while the latter
declared that with five hundred men he would march from one
extreme of the continent to the other. These were opinions
of men high in the royal confidence of their sovereign — opin-
ions abhorrent to reason and philosophy, but which were
received with avidity because they wore consonant with the
sanguinary and obdurate temper of a man who seems desirous
of exchanging his ancient and venerable motto for the more
classical and pleasing one of sio volo, siejuheo. Had either of
tlie senators above mentioned consulted Horace, they would
have been informed that the lion could not beget the lamb, nor
the bird of Jove the timid dove.

' Fortes creantur fortibus
Est in Juvencis, est in cquis patrum

Tirtus ; nee imbellem feroces

Progenerant aquilse columbaia.' " '

It is said little Hamilton, the poet and composer to the
Lord Protector Mr. Washington, is engaged upon a literary
work which is intended to give posterity a triie HamiUon-s work
estimate of the present rebellion and its support- °° *'"' E"<>1''"o°-
ers, in case Clinton's light bobs should extii-pate the whole race
of rebels this campaign.

' Political Mirror ; or a summary review of the present reign. — iVeit' Jersey
Gazette, January 12, ITSO.

204 DIAPvY OF THE EEVOLUTION. [17T9.

As the facile penman lias seen a great deal of life in a very
few years, and is withal a " tarnation cute obsarver" it is prob-
able he will afford posterity great amusement as well as in-
strnction. It is said that the best American artists are engaged
to illustrate the work, which is to be much enhanced in value
by the presence of a vignette, representing a combat between
a Presbyterian deacon, and the flesh and the devil, (in which
the deacon gets whipped.)

The great interest Mr. "Washington has in the work will be
imagined, when we consider that he wore out four pair of
sherry vallies (leather breeches) a few weeks ago, sitting for
his picture to a peddling limner in Philadelphia, especially to
illuminate the writer's ideas. Of the natiire of the other
illustrations, we know of but two : — One, of Polly Wajme's
brigade '" boldly " retreating from Stony Point, after a " man-
ly " possession of that fortress for three hours ; the other, a
rear view (by far the most intelligent and pleasing) of the tit-
tA&v Lord Stirling, on his return from one of his nightly feu
de joies at Bergen, in Jersey, and supposed to be mumming
his usual boast in a strain something like this : —

"Peer's blood I have " —
Toddied and brave —
Who-o-o'd be a sla-a-a-ve ?

In the phrase of the Gazette writer, " we congratulate the
lovers of romance on the spicy repast that is in store for them,"
and at the same time regret that we are unable to give a
longer extract from Stirling's interlude on his descent ; which
descent, by the way, has been so rapid and effectual as not
only to deprive him of nobility, but leaves him quite below
respectability.'

August 15. — ^The nmnber seven, which signifies fulness or

perfection, from vai-ious passages of scripture, appears to point

,p^g out events interesting and important. But noth-

Numbor Seven. j,jg ^f t]j|g ^^^^^ -^ j^^^j.^, extraordinary than Avhat

is afforded to us in the course of the present contest Avith

' Smythe'a Journal, p. 91.

1779.] THE NUMBER SEVEN. 205

Great Britain. On the seventeenth day of the month the
repeal of the stamp act passed the House of Commons. On
tlie seventeenth day of the month the news of it arrived at
Boston. On the seventeenth day of the month and the seventh
day of the week was the battle on Bunker's Hill, from which
time just three years, on the seventeenth day of the month was
the commencement of hostilities between France and Great
Britain. On the seventh day of the week was the battle
of Germantown ; and on the seventh day of the month was
the battle of Stillwater. In August, 1776, instructions were
drawn up by the authority of the King of Great Britain, and
directed to General Carleton in Canada, relative to the late in-
glorious expedition of the British northern army. This de-
spatch not arriving in seven months from the above date, new
instructions were formed, from which it appears that Burgoyne
was to proceed with an army of about seven thousand, and St.
Leger with about seven hundred, besides Canadians and Indi-
ans, to force their way to Albany. In seven months from the
last-mentioned period, on the seventeenth day of the month,
in the seventeenth year of the reign of the tyrant Georji'o the
Tliird, who is the seventh monarch from the tyrant Cluu-les
the First, in seven years and seven months from the first blood
shed by the British troops in the present unhappy contest ;
the massacre in Icing's street, Boston, which was seven years
from the assumed right of the British Parliament to tax Amer-
ica ; in seventy years from the union of England and Scot-
land ; in seventeen months from the late important capture,
on the seventh day of the month, of seven sail of vessels
richly laden. In the year of our Lord one thousand seven
hundred and seventy-seven, Burgoyne and his whole army
surrendered.

Seven marks tlie crisis of the rising States,

When Britain's hero bows to valiant Gates,

In seventy-seven our troops to conquest led,

Our foes fell captives, or like dastards fled.

When seventeen years the tyrant George had rcign'd.

His troops were vanquish'd and his glory stain'd.

Seven years and months successive interven'd,

From Preston's carnage to the important scene,

206 DIAET OF THE EEYOLUTIOIT. [1779.

When freedom's sons in one firm band combin'd,
Our foes surrendcr'd and their arms resign'd.
With joy reyere the perfect number seven,
And prize the bounties of indulgent Heaven,
And let seven thunders blast the tyrant's ire,
And warm our heroes with electric fire.'

Shoetlt after the conclusion of the late war, the Court of
France, as a reward for the Count D'Estaing's services, be-
Anecdofe of stowcd upon him the government of St. Domin-
D'Estaing. g^^ whcrc he no sooner arrived than he testified
his enmity against Great Britain by fitting out a squadron of
four ships-of-war, in June, 176-i, and possessed himself of
Turk's Island, just ceded to England by the treaty of peace.
This caused a great clamor in London, and it was imagined
would have made a fresh rupture with France. That court,
however, disavowed his proceedings, and restored the island,
enjoining, at the same time, the Count D'Estaing to make such
reparation for the damage we had sustained, as the Governor
of Jamaica (Mr. Lyttleton) should deem adequate thereto.
When D'Estaiug received these instructions, he declared lie
would no longer hold a government where he was to be the
instrument of such disgrace to his king and country ; and
joining his hands, with eyes to heaven, exclaimed, " Que le ciel
me fait la grace avant le trepas, de voir le moment oh ces fiers
insulaires ne possedront ni terres ni iles an nouveau monde;"
i. e., " May Heaven grant that before my deatli I may see the
moment when these proud islanders shall not possess either con-
tinent or island in the new world." "

August 20. — ^Yesteedat morning, at tln-ee o'clock, an at-
tack was made on the British garrison at Powle's Hook ;
Major Lee's Attack "^^^^i^'^' ^^^^^' ^ ^^"^'' rcsistaucc. Surrendered pris-
on Powie-s uook. oners of war, except Major Sutherland and about
fifty of liis men, who, under cover of the niglit, made their
escape to a small block-house on the left of the fort. Tlio

' "An Observer," in the Massachusetts Spy; and New Hampshire Gazette,
August 17.

' New Hampshire Gazette, August 17.

1779.] lee's attack ok powle's hook. 207

American party was commanded by Major Lee, of the liorse,
who, in a letter to General Washington, gives the following
particular account of the affair : ' "I took command of the
troops employed on this occasion, on the ISth. They amount-
ed to four hundred infantry, composed of detachments of the
Virginia and Maryland divisions, and one troop of dismounted
dragoons. The troojjs moved from the vicinity of the New
Bridge about four o'clock in the afternoon — patrols of horse
being detached to watch the communication with the North
Kiver, and parties of infantry stationed at the different ave-
nues leading to Powle's Hook. My anxiety to render the
march as easy as possible, induced me to pursue the Bergen
road lower than intended. After filing into the mountains,
the timidity or treachery of the principal guide prolonged a
short march into a march of three hours ; by this means the
troops were exceedingly harassed ; and, being obliged to pass
through deep, mountainous woods to regain our route, some
parties of the rear were tmfortunately separated. This affected
me most sensibly, as it not only diminished the number of the
men destined for the assault, but deprived me of the aid of
several ofiicers of distinguished merit.

" On reaching the point of separation, I found my first dis-
position impracticable, both from the near approach of day,
and the rising of the tide. Not a moment being to spare, I
paid no attention to the punctilios of honor or rank, but or-
dered the troops to advance in their then disposition. Lieu-
tenant Rudolph, whom I had previously detached to reconnoitre
the passages of the canal, returned to me at this point of time,
and reported that all was silence within the works : that he
had fathomed the canal, and foimd the passage on the centre
route still admissible. This intervening intelligence was im-
mediately communicated from front to rear, and the troops
pushed on with that resolution, order, and coolness, M'hich
insures success.

"The forlorn hopes, led by Lieutenant M'Callister of the

' Extract of a letter from an oflScer at Paramus, August 21, in tlie Nciv Hamp-
Ehire Gazette, September 7.

208 DIAKT OF THE EETOLUTION. [1779.

Maryland, and Lieutenant Hudolpli of the dragoons, marched
on with trailed arms in most ^wofound silence. Such was the
singular address of these two gentlemen, that the first notice
to the garrison was the forlorns plunging into the canal. A
firing immediately commenced from the block-houses, and along
the line of abattis, but did not in the least check the advance
of the troops. Tlie forlorn, supported by Major Clarke at the
head of the right column, broke throitgh all opposition, and
found an entrance into the main work. So rapid was the
movements of the troops, that we gained the fort before the
discharge of a single piece of artillery. Tlie centre column,
commanded by Captain Forsyth, on passing the abattis, took
a direction to their left. Lieutenant Armstrong led on the
advance of this column. Tliey soon possessed themselves of
the ofiicers and troops posted at the house No. 6, and fully
completed every object of their destination. The rear colunm,
under Captain Handy, moved forward in support of the whole.
Tims were we completely victorious in the space of a few mo-
ments.

"The appearance of daylight, my apprehension lest some
accident might have befallen the boats, the numerous difficul-
ties of the retreat, the harassed state of the troops, and the
destruction of all our ammunition by passing the canal, con-
spired in influencing me to retire at the moment of victor3\
Major Clarke, with the right column, was immediately put in
motion with the greater part of the prisonei's. Captain Handy
followed on with the remainder. Lieutenants Armstrong and
Eeed formed the rear guard.

" Immediately on the commencement of the retreat, I sent
forward Captain Forsyth to Prior's Mill to collect such men from
the different columns as were most fit for action, and to take
post on the heights of Bergen to cover the retreat. On my
reaching this place, I was informed by Cornet Neill (who had
been posted there during the night for the purpose of laying
the bridge and communicating with the boats) that my mes-
senger directed to him previous to the attack, had not arrived,
nor had he heard from Captain Peyton, who had charge of
the boats.

f-

X

1779.] ATTACK ON POWLe's HOOK. 209

" Struck with appreliension tliat I should be disappointed
in the route of retreat, I rode forward to the front under
Major Clarke, whom I found very near the point of embarka-
tion, and no boats to receive them. In this very critical situ-
ation, I lost no time in my decision, but ordered the troops to
regain Bergen road, and move on to the New Bridge. At the
same time, I communicated my disappointment to Lord Stirling
by express, then returned to Prior's Bridge to the rear guard.

" Oppressed by every possible misfortune, at the head of
troops worn down by a rapid march of thirty miles, through
mountains, swamps, and deep morasses, without the least re-
freshment during the whole march, ammunition destroyed,
encumbered with prisoners, and a retreat of fourteen miles to
make good, on a route admissible of interception at several
points by a march of two, three, or four miles, one body mov-
ing in our rear, and another (from the intelligence I had
received from the captured officers) in all probability well
advanced on our right, a retreat naturally impossible to our
left, under all these distressing circumstances, my sole depend-
ence was in the persevering gallantry of the officers, and ob-
stinate courage of the troops. In this I was fully satisfied by
the shouts of the soldiery, who gave every proof of unimpaired
vigor at the moment the enemy's approach was announced.

" Having gained the point of interception opposite "Wee-
hock, (Weehawken,) Captain Handy was directed to move with
his division on the mountain road, in order to facilitate the re-
treat. Captain Catlett, of the second Yirginia regiment, for-
tunately joined me at this moment at the head of fifty men
with good ammunition. I immediately halted this officer, and
having detached two parties, the one on the Bergen road in
the rear of Major Clarke, the other on the banks of the ISTorth
Eiver, I moved with the party under command of the cap-
tain on the centre route. By these precautions a sudden ap-
proach of the enemy was fully prevented. I am very much
indebted to this officer and the gentlemen under him, for their
alacrity and vigilance on this occasion.

" On the rear's approach to the Fort Lee road, we met a
detachment under the command of Colonel Ball, which Lord
Vol. II.— 14

210 DIAET OF THE EEVOLUTIOX. [1779.

Stirling had pushed forward, on the first notice of our situation,
to sujjport the retreat. The colonel moved on and occupied a
position which eifectually covered us.

" Some little time after this, a body of the enemy made
their appearance, issuing out of the woods on our right, and
moving through the fields directly to the road. They immediate-
ly commenced a fire upon our rear. Lieutenant Reed was or-
dered to face them, while Lieutenant Rudolph threw himself
with a party into a stone house which commanded the road.
These two officers were directed mutiially to support each
other, and give time for the troops to pass the English Neigh-
borhood Creek, at the liberty pole. On the enemy's observing
this disposition, they immediately retired by the same route
they had approached, and gained the woods. Tlie precipita-
tion with which they retired prevented the possibility of Col-
onel Eall's falling in with them, and saved the whole.

" The body which moved in our rear, having excessively
fatigiied themselves by the rapidity of their march, thought
prudent to halt before they came in contact with us.

" Thus was every attempt to cut ofi" our rear completely
baffled. The troops arrived safely at the New Bridge with all
the prisoners, about one o'clock p. m., on the nineteenth. I
should commit the highest injustice, was I not to assure your
excellency that my endeavors were fully seconded by every
officer in his station ; nor can any discrimination justly be
made, but what arose from opportunity. The troops vied with
each other in patience imder their many sufferings, and con-
ducted themselves in every vicissitude of fortune with a reso-
lution which reflects the highest honor on them. During the
whole action, not a single musket was fired on our side ; the
bayonet was our sole dependence.

" Having gained the fort, such was the order of the troops,
and attention of the officers, that the soldiers were prevented
from plundering, although in the midst of every sort. Amer-
ican humanity has been again signally manifested. Self-
preservation strongly dictated, on the retreat, the putting the
prisoners to death, and British cruelty fully justified it ; not-
withstanding which, not a man was wantonly hurt.

1779.] LEE AT POWLe's HOOK. 211

" During the progress of tlie troops in tlie woriis, from the
different reports of my ofScers I conchide not more than fifty
of the enemy were killed, and a few wounded. Among the
killed is one ofiieer, supposed (from his description) to be a
captain in Colonel Buskirk's regiment. Our loss on this occa-
sion is very trifling. I have not yet had a report from the
detachment of Yirginians ; but, as I conclude tlieir loss to be
proportionate to the loss of the other troops, I can venture to
pronounce that the loss of the whole in killed, woimded, and
missing, will not exceed twenty. As soon as the report comes
to hand, I will transmit to head-quarters an accurate return.
I herewith enclose a return of the prisoners taken from the
enemy.

" At every point of the enterprise I stood highly indebted
to Major Clarke for his zeal, activity, and example. Captains
Handy and Forsyth have claim to my particular thanks for the
support I experienced from them on every occasion. The
Captains Eeed, M'Clane, Smith, Crump, and "Wilmot, behaved
with the greatest zeal and intrepidity. I must acknowledge
myself very much indebted to Major Burnet and Captain Pey-
ton, of the dragoons, for their counsel and indefatigability in
the previous preparations for the attack. The premature
withdrawal of the boats was owing to the non-arrival of my
despatches ; and though a most mortifying circumstance, can
be called nothing more than unfortunate. Lieutenant Yan-
derville, who was to have commanded one of the forlorns, but
was thrown out by the alteration of the disposition of the
battle, conducted himself perfectly soldier-like. The whole
of the oiScers behaved with the greatest propriety ; and, as
I said before, no discrimination can justly be made, but what
arose from opportunity.

" The Lieutenants M'Callister, Armstrong, Eeed, and Eu-
dolph, distinguished themselves remarkably. Too much praise
cannot be given to those gentlemen for their prowess and
example. Captain Bradford, of the train, who volunteered it
with me for the purpose of taking direction of the artillery,
deserves my warmest thanks for his zeal and activity. I am
personally indebted to Captain Kudolph, and Dr. L-vine of

212 DIAET OF THE EEVOLUTION. [1779.

the dragoons, who attended me during the expedition, for their
many services.

" I beg leave to present yonr excellency with the flag of the
fort by the hands of Mr. M'Callister, the gentleman into
whose possession it fell.

"Among the many nnfortnnate circumstances which crossed
our wishes, none was more so than the accidental absence of
Colonel Buskirk, and the greatest part of his regiment. They
had set out on an expedition up the North Eiver the very night
of the attack. A company of vigilant Hessians had taken
their place in the fort, which rendered the secrecy of approach
more precarious, and, at the same time, diminished the object
of the enterprise by a reduction of the number of the gai-ri-
son. Major Sutherland fortunately saved himself by a soldier's
counterfeiting his person. This imposition was not discovered
until too late.

" I intended to have burnt the barracks ; but on finding a
number of sick soldiers and women with young children in
them, humanity forbade the execiition of my intention. The
key of the magazine could not be foimd, nor could it be broken
open in the little time we had to spare, many attempts having
been made to that purpose by the Lieutenants M'Callister
and Reed. It was completely impracticable to bring off any
pieces of artillery. I consulted Captain Bradford on the point,
who confirms me in my opinion. The circumstance of spiking
them being trivial, it was omitted altogether.

" After most of the troops had retired from the works, and
were passed and passing the canal, a fire of musketry com-
menced from a few stragglers, who had collected in an old
work on the right of the main fort. Their fire being ineffec-
tual, and the object trifling, I determined not to break in
upon the order of retreat, but continue passing the defile in
front. I cannot conclude this relation without expressing my
warmest thanks to Lord Stirling for the full patronage I re-
ceived from him in every stage of the enterprise. I must also
return my thanks to the cavalry for their vigilant execution of
the duties assigned them." '

' Pennsylvania Packet, September 2. General Sir Henry Clinton, in a letter

1T79.] sm HENBY Clinton's lettee. 213

Atjgtjst 24. — ^Yesterday being the anniversary of the birth
of his most Christian Majesty, LEWIS the XVIth, the vessels
in the harbor of Philadelphia were decorated with Birthday of
union nags ; thu'teen rounds were fared by many trated.
of them, as also from the State artillery at the coffee-
lioiise. Tlie bells were rang, and in the evening the city was
entertained by a most brilliant display of fireworks, from a
stage erected before the door of his Excellency the President
of the State. All ranks of people testified by their coimte-
nances and behavior the most sincere joy in paying these
marks of respect to the birthday of an illustrious Prince, who
has justly merited from the world, and in particular from these
States, the exalted title of the Peotectok of the Kights of
Mankind.'

August 25. — ^Yesteeday evening, the Chevalier de la Lu-
zerne, accompanied with M. de Valnais, consul of France,
M. de Marbois, counsellor of parliament, M. de Ln^eme visits
Chavagnes, captain in the royal navy of France, harvard coiiege.
and a number of other gentlemen of distinction, both French
and Americans, made a visit to Harvard College, at the invi-
to Lord George Gemiaine, dated New York, August 21, 1T79, says of tbis action:
"On the 19th instant, the garrison of Powle's Hook being reinforced, Lieutenant-
Colonel Buskirk was detached with part of the troops to cut off some small parties
who interrupted the supplies of provision ; a considerable body of the rebels availed
themselves of that opportunity to attempt the post. At three in the morning
they advanced to the gate of the works, and being mistaken by a negligent guard
for Lieutenant-Colonel Buskirk's corps returning, entered without opposition. I
fear they found the garrison so scandalously absorbed, in consequence of their
security, that they made themselves masters of a block-house and two redoubts
with scarcely any difficulty. The alarm being now spread. Major Sutherland, the
commandant, threw himself, with forty Hessians, into a redoubt, by an incessant
fire from which he forced the enemy to quit the post without either damaging any
of the cannon or setting fire to the barracks. In short, their retreat was as dis-
graceful as their attempt was well-conducted. They carried off with them near
forty invalids, prisoners. A detachment being sent over from New York, Major
Sutherland pursued the enemy, and coming up with their rear made a captain and
some privates prisoners. Lieutenant-Colonel Buskirk, on his return, had a small
skirmish with the rebels, and took four prisoners without any loss on his part." —
Upcott, v. 327.

' Pennsylvania Packet, August 24.

214 DIAET OF THE KETOLUTION. [1779.

tation of the president and corporation. Tlie Chevalier and
company having alighted from their carriages, passed through
the college yard between two lines of students in their academ-
ical habits, their heads uncovered, to the door of Harvard
Hall, where they were received by the j)resident, corpora-
tion, professors, and tutors, and conducted to the library.
Soon after they were seated, the president rose, and in the
name of the corporation and the whole university, addressed
the Chevalier in the Latin language, congratulating his safe
arrival, making the most respectful mention of our illustrious
ally, his most Christian Majesty; expressing the warmest
wishes for the perpetuation of the alliance, and the completion
of its important and happy design, and for the prosperity of
religion and learning throughout the world.

The Chevalier replied in the most polite manner, and in
the same language, assuring his audience that his Avishes had
been most fortunately crowned by seeing a country, once in-
deed the region of ignorance and barbarity, now the seat of
-freedom, commerce, virtue, and tlie liberal arts ; and express-
ing, at the same time, the i;ncommon joy he should derive
from finding the turbulent scenes of war, and the public nego-
tiation in which he was engaged, prej^aring the way for a closer
alliance betAveen the arts and sciences in distant nations, to
their mutual improvement, and the common benefit of man-
kind. After amusing themselves among the rich variety of
books deposited in the library, the company were conducted
into a large and elegant philosophy room, Avhere a very decent
entertainment was provided. After dinner they viewed the
curiosities of the museum, and the philosophical apparatus
fabricated by some of the best artists in Europe.

Every countenance indicated pleasure, and every circiim-
stance of the day testified the joy that Avas difl:used through
the whole university upon this agreeable occasion.'

' New Hampshire Gazette, September 7.

CHAPTER VI.

Septejibee 4. — This morning, the Congress being informed
that Mr. William Henry Drayton, one of tlie delegates of the
State of Sonth Carolina, died last night, and that Death of -wiiiiam
circnmstanees required that his remains should be ^""^ DraytoD.
interred this evening, they "Jiesolved, That the Congress would,
in a body, attend the funeral this evening at six o'clock, as
mourners, "(vith a crape round the left arm, and -n-ould continue
in mourning for the space of one month." They further re-
solved that Mr. Laurens, Mr. Matthews, and Mr. Harnett be a
committee to superintend the funeral ; and that the Eev. Mr.
White, the attending chaplain, should be notified to officiate on
the occasion. Tliey also directed the committee to invite the
General Assembly, the President and Supreme Executive
Council of Pennsylvania, the Minister Plenipotentiary of
France, and other persons of distinction in town, to attend
the fnneral.

Accordingly, at six o'clock this evening, the coi-pse was
carried in procession to Christ Church — the President, two
members of the Executive Council, the Judge of the Admi-
ralty, and the Attorney-General of Pennsylvania, and Briga-
dier-General Hogan, supported the pall. Besides the Presi-
dent and members of Congress as mourners, the Minister and
Consul of Prance, several civil and military officers of the
United States, and a number of inhabitants and strangers of
distinction, attended the funeral. After Divine service had
been performed by the Eev. Mr. White, rector of the Episco-
pal churches in Philadelphia, and one of the chaplains of Con-
gTess, the corpse was interred in the adjoining cemetery.

216 DIAET OF THE REVOLUTION. [1779.

Mr. Drayton's age did not exceed tliirty-eight years ; — lie
died of a putrid fever. His health had been almost insensibly
impaired by a sedentary life, and incessant attention to busi-
ness for near two years' attendance on Congress, which his
constitution, though naturally strong, was unable longer to
sustain. His family was always among the number of the
most respectable and opulent in South Carolina. He had
taken an early and decided part in the present contest, and
been honored from time to time by his country, with the most
important and confidential offices. At the time of his death
he was chief-justice of that State, and one of its delegates to
Congress. His literary attainments, acc[uired by good talents
and an excellent education, are well known here and in Eu-
rope, where several of his political papers have been admired
and read in different languages.

To speak particularly of his character would perhaps be
improper in a newspaper, which, like the grave, generally
places the dead on a level, without respect to the wise man or
the fool, the saint or the sinner. Let this subject, therefore,
be reserved for the pen of some impartial historian, who, when
he shall infoi'm posterity that William Henry Drayton was an
honest, independent patriot, and an iipright, candid gentleman,
will, at the same time, communicate facts more than sufficient
to establish and support his title to that character.'

Septemeek 16. — ^The expedition of General Sullivan against
the Indians has been crowned with complete success. Forty
sniiivan's ^^ *^'^"' towns have been reduced to ashes : one
Ei-pedition. pf them (Genesee) contained about one hundred
and twenty-eight houses ; all of their corn destroyed, computed
to amount to one hundred and sixty thousand bushels, besides
large quantities of other articles. Tlic Avhole country of the
Senecas, and other tribes of the Six Nations, have been over-
mn and destroyed, and they compelled to fly to Niagara for se-
curity ; and all this done with the loss of less than forty men on
our part, including killed, wounded, taken, and those who died

Pennsylvania Packet, September 11.

1779.] BEODHEAd's EXrEDIXION. 217

natural deaths. In course of the expedition, it became neces-
sary to lessen the issues of provisions to half the usual allow-
ance, in which the troops acquiesced with the greatest cheer-
fulness, being determined to prosecute the enterprise to a
complete and successful issue.

Colonel Brodhead, who commanded a party from Fort
Pitt, has penetrated the Lidian country, Ijang on the Alle-
ghany River, one hundred and eighty miles, burnt Brodhead-s visit

\> , ,V -.r -. >, • to the Seneca

ten of the Mmgo, Munsey, and beneca towns m Towns,
that quarter, containing one hundred and sixty -five houses, and
destroyed all the fields of corn, computed to be five hundred
acres, with the only loss on onr side of three men slightly
wonnded. Forty-three of their warriors were met by Lieuten-
ant Harding and an advance party of twenty-two men, who
attacked the savages, and routed them, killed five on the spot,
and took all their canoes and blankets.'

A gentleman who attended Colonel Brodhead, gives the
following particular account of the expedition : — " Tlie many
savage barbarities and horrid depredations committed by the
Seneca and Munsey nations upon the western frontiers, had
determined Colonel Brodhead, as the most effectual way to
prevent such hostilities in future, and revenge the past, to
carry the war into their owti country, and strike a decisive
blow at their tovras.

" On the 11th of August, our little army, consisting of only
six hundred and five rank and file, marched from Pittsburg
with one naonth's provision. At Mahoning, fifteen miles
above the Old Kittanning, we were detained four days by
the excessive rains, from whence (leaving the river, which
flows in a thousand manners) we proceeded by a blind path
leading to Cuscushing, through a country almost impassable
by reason of the stupendous heights and frightful declivities,
with a continued range of craggy hills, overspread with fallen
timber, thorns, and underwood ; here and there an intervening
valley, whose deep, impenetrable gloom has always been im-
pervious to the piercing rays of the warmest sun. At Cus-

' New Hampshire Gazette, November 2.

218 DIAET OF THE EETOLUTIO^^ [1779

cusliing (wliicli is fifteen miles above Venango) we crossed tlie
Alleghany, and continued our route upon its banks. But here
our march was rendered still more difficult by the mountains,
which jutted close upon the river, formmg a continued naiTow
defile, allowing us only the breadth of an Indian path to
march upon. In the midst of these defiles, our advanced
party, consisting of fifteen white men and eight Delawares, dis-
covered between thirty and forty warriors landing from their
canoes, who, having also seen part of our troops, immediately
stripped themselves and prepared for action. Lieutenant
Harding, who commanded our advance, disposed his men in
a semi-circular form, and began the attach with such irresisti-
ble fury, tomahawk in hand, that the savages could not long
sustain the charge, but fled with the utmost horror and precip-
itation, some plunging themselves into the river, and others,
favored by the thickness of the bushes, made their escape on
the main, lea%dng five dead on the field, without any loss on
our side except three men slightly woimded. Upon the first
alarm, supposing it to be more serious, the army was arranged
for fight ; both officers and men, enraged at their former cru-
elties, animated by the calmness, resolution, and intrepidity of
the commandant, showed the utmost ardor to engage ; and had
the action been general, we had every prospect of the most
ample success from a brave commander at the head of brave
men. Continuing our march, we arrived the same day at
Buchan, where, leaving our baggage, stores, &c., under a
guard, we proceeded to their towns with the utmost despatch,
which we found at the distance of about twenty miles further,
with extensive cornfields on both sides of the river, and de-
serted by the inhabitants on our approach. Eight towns we
set in flames, and committed their pagod and war posts to the
river. The corn, amounting in the whole to near six hundred
acres, was our next object, which in three days we cut down
and piled into heaps, without the least interruption from the
enemy.

" Upon our return, we several times crossed a creek about
ten miles above Venango, remarkable for an oily liquid which
oozes from the sides and bottom of the channel and the adjacent

1779.] CONFUSION AT PHILADELPHIA. 219

sjirings, much resembling Britisli oil, and if applied to woollen
cloth, burns it in an instant.

" After burning the old towns of Conauwago and Mahus-
quachinkockeu, we arrived at Pittsburg, the fourteenth instant,
with the scalps we had taken, and three thousand dollars' worth
of plunder ; having, in the course of thirty-three days, com-
pleted a march of near four hundred miles, through a country
the Indians had hitherto thought impenetrable by us, and con-
sidered as a sufficient barrier for the security of their towns ;
and, indeed, nothing but the absolute necessity of such a meas-
ure, and a noble spirit of enterprise, could be a sufficient in-
ducement to undertake so arduous a task, and encounter those
difficulties and obstacles which require the most consummate
fortitude to surmount." '

30. — We hear that the committee at Philadel-
phia is dissolved, and that the utmost confusion now reigns in
that city; that their currency is got as low as coBfnsionat
twenty-eight for one ; that General Lee has had r^i'^'ieiphia.
a duel with Mr. Clarkson, aide-de-camp to General Arnold, in
whicli the former was wounded in the side slightly ; that Gen-
eral Washington remains at "West Point, Lord Stirling in the
Clove ; that about sixty of Baylor's light horse moved down
to Monmouth a few days ago ; that Major Hays commands at
Elizabethtown at present ; that the news of the Spaniards in-
terfering in the present war is but very coolly received in most
parts of the country, the sensible part of the people being of
opinion that some European powers will join Great Britain,
and in the end that America will fall a prey to one of the
powers at war.''

OoTOBEE 7. — ^Testeedat moming, about one o'clock, made
their escape from the Good Hope prison-ship, lying in the
Iforth Kiver at New York, nine captains and two Prince's Escape
privates. Among the number was Captain James Prison sMp.
Prince, who had been confined four months, and having no

' Extract of a letter from Pittsburg, September 16, in the New York Gazette,
November 1. - New York Gazette, October 4.

220 DIAET OF THE EETOLUTION. [1T79.

prospect of being excLauged, concerted a plan in conjunction
with the other gentlemen, to make their escape, which they
effected in the following manner : They confined the mate,
disarmed the sentinels, and hoisted ont the boat which was on
deck. They bronght off nine stand of arms, one pair of pis-
tols, and a sufficient quantity of ammunition, being determined
not to be taken alive. Tliey had scarcely got clear of the ship
before the alarm was given, when they were fired on by three
dififerent ships, but fortunately no person was hurt. Caj^tain
Prince speaks in the highest terms of Captain Charles Nelson,
who commanded the prison-ship, using tlie prisoners with a
great deal of humanity, and in particular himself.'

October 21. — ^Tms day, a Mr. Van Mater was knocked oflT
his horse on the road near Longstreet's mill, in Monmouth
Lewis Fenton ^o^nty, Ncw Jersey, by LcAvis Fenton and one
Killed. Debow, by whom he was stabbed in the arms and
otherwise much abused, besides being robbed of his saddle.
In the mean time, another person coming up, drew the atten-
tion of the robbers, and gave Yan Mater an opportunity to
make his escape. He went directly and informed a sergeant's
guard of Major Lee's light dragoons, who were in the neigh-
borhood, of what had happened. The sergeant immediately
impressed a wagon and horses, and ordered three of his men to
secrete themselves in it under some hay. Having changed liis
clothes and procured a guide, he made haste, thus equipped, to
the place where Fenton lay. On the appi-oach of the wagon,
Fenton (his companion being gone) rushed out to plunder it.
Upon demanding what they had in it, he was answered, " a
little wine and spirits." Tliese articles he said he wanted ;
and while advancing towards the Avagon to take possession of
them, one of the soldiers, being previously informed who he
was, shot him through the head, which killed liim instantly on
the spot. Thus did tliis villain end his days, which it is hoped
will at least be a warning to others, if not, induce them to
throw themselves on the mercy of their injured country.''

' New Hampshire Gazette, November 2. " Same.

1779.] THE SIEGE OF SAVANNAH. 221

Ie Ave may venture to conjecture from many expressions
dropped from the different flags of truce arrived in New York
lately, it is greatly to be believed that the Con-
gress has made a solemn request to the Court of
France to find a polite pretext of inviting Mr. "Washington
to the Court of Versailles, by way of getting rid of a man
whom they no longer wish should control their rebellious
measures.'

October 22. — On the first day of last month (September)
Count D'Estaing arrived off the coast of Georgia, in order to
co-operate with the Americans under the com- British Account
mand of General Lincoln, in the reduction of savannah.
Savannah. Upon the fifteenth, says a correspondent, the
Count summoned the town to surrender, in the true style of a
Frenchman." A proper answer was returned. In the mean
time Moncrieffe was indefatigable in putting the place in a
proper state of defence. A few days afterwards, the French
and rebels began to throw up works upon the hill to the left
of Tatnall's, within about three or four hundred yards of the
British lines, when three companies of light infantry were sent
out in hopes of drawing on a general action ; biit were obliged
to retire, being opposed by ten thnes their number, after fight-
ing like lions in the sight of the whole army. The British loss
was Lieutenant M'Pherson killed, and about fifteen privates
killed and wounded ; and it is beyond doubt that the French
had upwards of fifty killed, and a considerable number wound-
ed. Major Graham commanded in this little afiair. After
this, the British never attempted to interrupt the Monsieurs,
who could be heard working lilce devils every night.

About one o'clock in the morning of the third instant, they
began a most dreadful cannonade and bombardment, which

' Rivington's Gazette, October 23.

'' The Count summoned General Prevost to surrender to the arms of the King
of France. General Lincoln remonstrated with him on his summons to surrender
to the arms of France 07i!i/, while the Americans were acting in conjunction -with
him. The matter, however, was soon settled, and the mode of all future nego-
tiations amicably adjusted. — Gordon, iii. 31.

222 DIAET OF THE EEVOLtJTION-. [1779.

continued witli very little intermission until tlie ninth, when
the town was very much shattered, and two houses burnt by
carcases. Notwithstanding there were thirty pieces of heavy
cannon and ten mortars incessantly playing upon us, it is
astonishing the little loss we sustained ; the only officer killed
was our worthy friend Captain Simpson, of Major "Wright's
corps. About daybreak on the ninth, the united forces of
France and America, consisting of upwards of four thousand
French, and the Lord knows how many rebels, attempted to
storm our lines. The piineipal attack was made in three col-
unms, who intended to unite and attack the works at the
redoubt upon the Ebenezer road. Tlie count, in person, be-
gan the attack with great vigor, but was soon thrown into
confusion by the well-pointed fire from our batteries and re-
doubts. A choice body of grenadiers came on with such
spirit to attack the old redoubt upon the Ebenezer road, that
if Tawse, with a number of his men, had not thrown himself
in very opportunely, it must have been carried ; upwards of
sixty men were lying dead in the ditch after the action. Poor
Tawse fell bravely fighting for his country. The rebels could
not be brought to the charge, and in their confusion are said
to have fired upon their allies, and killed upwards of fifty of
them. It is almost incredible the trifling loss we sustained ;
the only officer killed was poor Tawse, and there were not
twenty privates killed and wounded. Tlie enemy's loss was
astonishing. I never saw such a dreadful scene, as several
hundreds lay dead in a space of a few yards, and the cries
of many hundreds woTinded was still more distressing to a
feeling mind. The exact loss of the enemy cannot be ascer-
tained ; but Mr. Eobert Baillie, who was a prisoner with the
French during the whole of the siege, says they own a loss of
near fifteen hiindred. The coimt, in the action of the ninth,
was wounded in the arm and thigh, and Pulaski very danger-
ously by a grape-shot in the groin. Two days ago the last of
the French troops embarked ; the rebels have been gone some
time, and we are now in as much tranquillity as we have been
for any time these six months past. Mutual animosity and
reviling have arisen to such a height between the French and

1779.] THE SIEGE OP SAVANNAH. 223

rebels since they "w^ere defeated, that tliey were almost ready
to cut one another's throats.'

The chief-justice of Georgia, in a letter to his wife, dated
November ninth, gives the following particular account of the
siege of Savannah : — " Soon after my arrival, I ,j,^^ ^^^^^ ^^
made application to the barrack-master to be pro- Saraunah.
vided with apartments ; but Savannah was so full that it was
with difficulty I got two rooms in a house in which the town
adjutant and his wife were quartered ; and those worthy
people showed me great civility, doing every thing in their
power to make my life comfortable. After some time my
health was so nixich impaired with living in town, that I pro-
posed going to my house in the country, Avhieh is on the Salts.
"With the assistance of friends and a good deal of trouble, I at
last moved my baggage and some provisions to the country,
where I soon grew better ; but I had not been there many
days, and had scarcely completed the removal of my baggage,
when (on the third of September) the Count D'Estaing, with
twenty-two sail of the line, and fourteen frigates, and a num-
ber of transports, appeared on the coast, and a descent being
preconcerted with the rebels in South Carolina, the latter had
sent parties within ten miles of Savannah, and taken several
prisoners, negroes, and horses. I now moved into town, and
ordered my negroes to bring in my baggage; but before
that was completed, the French landed on the twelfth of Sep-
tember, and came into my neighborhood, by which means I
lost the wine, provisions, furniture, some books, and other arti-
cles- that were left behind. Several of my negroes were also
left at the plantation, and Fanny, that was just delivered, ran
into the woods to avoid being taken. The house in which I
was quartered, was that in which Mrs. Lloyd formerly lived ;
and under the house there was a cellar, which a merchant
desired the town adjutant and myself would permit him to
apply to the barrack-master for the use of, and we accordingly
consented to it. Tliis merchant lent his cellar to two others,

' Extract of a letter from Savannah, in Rivington's Gazette, November 20.

22i DIARY OF THE EEVOLUTION. [1779.

who, M'ithout the knowledge of the town adjutant or myself,
inhumanly put twenty-five puncheons of rum into the cellar,
after the town had been invested, and Count D'Estaing had
demanded the surrender thereof to the arms of France. The
French and Americans had invested the town, and the French
had intrenched themselves up to the chin, about two hundred
yards from our lines, some time before their artillery and am-
munition came up from their ships ; and as a slight cannonade
had passed over, many began to flatter themselves that the
enemy would go away without any furtlier effects. But in
this they found themselves much mistaken ; for at midnight
of the third of October, when all the women and children
were asleep, the French opened a battery of nine mortars, and
kept up a very heavy bombardment for an hour and a half,
in which time those who counted the shells found that they
fired one hundred, which were chiefly directed to the town. I
heai-d one of the shells whistle over my quarters, and present-
ly afterwards I got up and dressed myself; and as our neigh-
borhood seemed to be in the line of fire, I went out with a
view to go to the eastward, oi;t of the way ; but a shell that
seemed to be falling near me, rather puzzled me how to keep
clear of it, and I returned to the house not a little alarmed.
I then proceeded to the westward, and then the shells seemed
to fall all around ; there I soon joined a number of gentlemen
who had left their houses on account of the bombardment, and
like me, were retiring from the line of fire to Yammacraw ;
here we stayed till between one and two in the morning, when
the bombardment ceased. Fortunately for us, there was no
cannonade at the same time, and in the night shells are so dis-
cernible that they are more easily avoided than in the day.
Being indisposed, I had not slept a wink from my going to
bed at nine till the bombardment began at twelve ; and before
I returned again, it was near three in the morning, when
from fatigue I soon fell asleep ; but at five I was aM^akened
with a very heavy cannonade from a French frigate to the
north of the to^m, and with a bombardment and cannonade
from the French lines in the south, which soon hurried me out
of bed ; and before I could get my clothes on, an cigliteen-

r^nj'""

>.,,,,#,/V%!'MimTA» =^.,f'''

PliAN

oniw SIEGE or
Savaxxah

wrtilt^l('J(>llltAtt^^ck<)^'lh(^ h'tvndniAnioviciins

ontlu'.')'lH)('k)bcr,
1779.

22-i DIAET OF THE EEVOLUTION. [1779.

who, without the knowledge of the town adjutant or myself,
inhumanly put twenty -live puncheons of rum into the cellar,
after the town had been invested, and Count D'Estaing had
demanded the surrender thereof to the arms of France. The
French and Americans had invested the town, and the French
had intrenched themselves up to the chin, about two hundred
yards from our lines, some time before their artillery and am-
munition came up from their ships ; and as a slight cannonade
had passed over, many began to flatter themselves that the
enemy would go away withoiit any further effects. But in
this they found themselves much mistaken ; for at midniglit
of the third of October, when all the women and children
were asleep, the French opened a battery of nine mortars, and
kept up a very heavy bombardment for an hour and a half,
in which time those who counted the shells found that they
fired one hundred, which were chiefly directed to the town. I
heard one of the shells whistle over my quarters, and present-
ly afterwards I got up and dressed myself; and as our neigh-
borhood seemed to be in the line of fire, I went out with a
view to go to the eastward, out of the way ; but a shell that
seemed to be falling near me, rather puzzled me how to keep
clear of it, and I returned to the hoiise not a little alarmed.
I then proceeded to the westward, and then the shells seemed
to fall all around ; there I soon joined a number of gentlemen
who had left their houses on account of the bombardment, and
like me, were retiring from the line of fire to Yammacraw ;
here we stayed till between one and two in the morning, when
the bombardment ceased. Fortunately for us, there was no
cannonade at the same time, and in the night shells are so dis-
cernible that they are more easily avoided than in the day.
Being indisposed, I had not slept a wink from my going to
bed at nine till the bombardment began at twelve ; and before
I returned again, it was near three in the morning, when
from fatigue I soon fell asleep ; but at five I was awakened
with a very heavy cannonade from a French frigate to tlie
north of the town, and with a bombardment and cannonade
from the French lines in the south, which soon hurried me out
of bed ; and before I could get my clothes on, an eighteen-

1779.] THE SIEGE OF SAVANNAH. 226

pounder entered the house, stuck in the middle partition, and
drove the plastering all about. "We who were in the house
now found ourselves in a cross fire ; and notwithstanding the
rum in the cellar, we thought it less dangerous to descend
there than to continue in the house, as the fall of a shell
into the cellar was not so probable as the being killed in the
house with a cannon ball ; for the cellar being under ground,
a shot in its usual direction would not reach us. Tlie cellar
was so full of rum and provisions, that Mrs. Cooper, the ne-
groes, and myself, could hardlj creep in ; and after we had
descended into it, some shot struck the house, and one passed
through the kitchen, from which the negroes had then lately
come down ; and had they not luckily moved away, it is prob-
able that several of them would have been killed. Whilst
we were in the cellar, two shells burst not far from the door,
and many others fell in the neighborhood all around us. In
this situation a number of us continued in a damp cellar,
until the cannonade and bombardment almost ceased, for the
French to cool their artillery ; and then we ascended to break-
fast. As the cannonade and bombardment were chiefly direct-
ed to the town, no mischief was done in the lines that I heard
of; but a Mr. Pollard, deputy barrack-master, was killed by a
shell in that house on the bay which was formerly inhabited
by Mr. Moss ; and the daughter of one Thomson was almost
shot in two by a cannon ball, at the house next to where Mr.
Elliott lived. I am told there were other lives lost, but I have
not heard the particulars. Fortunately for us, after breakfast
the town adjutant's wife and myself went over to Captain
Knowles, who is agent for the transports, and to whose cellar
Mr. Prevost, the general's lady, and several gentlemen and
ladies had retired for security. This house was directly oppo-
site to my quarters, and about thirty or forty feet distant.
Tlie general's lady and Captain Knowles invited us to stay
there, which invitation we accepted, and we continued in the
cellar, with several others, as agreeably as the situation of
matters would admit of, until three o'clock on Tuesday morn-
ing. During the whole of this time the French kept up a
brisk cannonade and bombardment, the shot frequently struck
Vol II.— 15

226 DIAKY OF THE EETOLTJTION. [1779.

near us, and the shells fell on each side of ns with so much
violence, that in their fall they shook the ground, and many
of them burst with a great explosion. On Monday night we
heard a shot strike my quarters, and in the morning we foimd
an eighteen-pounder had entered the house and fallen near the
head of my negro, Dick, who providentially received no hurt.
Tlie guns seemed to approach on each side, and about three
o'clock on AVednesday morning a shell whistled close by Cap-
tain Knowles' house. Soon afterwards another came nearer,
and seemed to strike my quarters, and I thought I heard the
cry of people in distress. "We all jumped up, and before I
could dress myself, my charters were so much in flames that I
could not venture further than the door, for fear of an explo-
sion from tlie rum. George and Jemmy were over with me in
Captain Knowles' cellar; the others were at my quarters.
George ran over before me, and fortunately for me drew out
of the flames the two black trunks with some of my apparel,
&c., that I brought oiit with me, and then removed them over
to Captain Knowles' passage, which was all the property I
saved, except a little black trunk that was put into one of the
large ones by accident ; for I momently expected that the ex-
plosion of the rum would blow up the house, and kill every
one near it ; and as soon as tlie French observed the flames,
they kept up a very heavy cannonade and bombardment, and
pointed their fire to that object to prevent any person ap-
proaching to extinguish the flames. I retired to Captain
Knowles', where, in vain, I called out for some negroes to
help me to save my two trunks, for I expected that Captain
Knowles' house, and the commodore's next to it, Avoiild be de-
stroyed. No negro came to my assistance, and I was informed
that mine, who slept at the quarters, being frightened at the
shell, liad ran away ; but unfortunately that information was
not true. Being in the direction of the French fire, I was
every moment in danger of being smashed to 2:)ieces with a
shell, or shot in two with a cannon ball ; and as each of the
trunks were too large for me to carry oft', I thought it safest to
abandon them, and retire to a place of safety, than to run tlie
risk of losing my life as well as my property. I had some

1779.] THE SIEGE OF SAVAI^NAH. 227

distance to go before I got out of tlie lino of fire, and I did
not know the way under Savannali Bluff, where I should have
been safe from cannon balls ; and, therefore, whenever I came
to the opening of a street, I watched the flashes of the mortars
and guns, and pushed on until I came imder cover of a house ;
and when I got to the common, and heard the whistling of a
shot or shell, I fell on my face. But the stopping under cover
of a house was no security, for the shot went through many
houses ; and Tliomson's daughter was killed at the side opposite
to that where the shot entered. At last I reached an encamp-
ment made by Governor "Wright's negroes on the common
between Savannah and Tammacraw, and it being dark I
fell down into a trench which they had dug. I proposed to
stop at the house of a Mr. Tully ; but a soldier, who was on
guard at the Hessian Hospital at Yammacraw, advised me to
go further from the line of fire, and conducted me to the
house of Mr. Moses Nones, at the west end of Yammacraw,
which was quite out of the direction of the enemy's batteries.
Tliis place was crowded, both inside and out, with a number
of whites and negroes, who had ficd from the town. Women
and children were constantly fiocking there, melting into tears,
and lamenting their unhappy fate, and the destruction of their
houses and property. Several of them I helped out of a chair,
which was immediately despatched to fetch more from the dan-
ger they were threatened with. Tlie appearance of the town
afi"orded a melancholy prospect, for there was hardly a house
which had not been shot through, and some of them were
almost destroyed. Ambrose, Wright, and Stute's, in which
we lived, had upwards of fifty shot that went through each
of them, as I am informed ; and old Mr. Habersham's house,
in Avhich Major Prevost lived, was almost destroyed with shot
and shells. In the streets, and on the common, there was a
number of large holes made in the ground by the shells, so
that it was not without some difficulty the chair got on ; and
in the church, and Mr. Jones' house, I observed that the shells
came in at the roof, and went through to the ground ; and a
number of other houses sufli'ered by shells. Tlie troops in the
lines were much safer from the bombardment than the people

228 DIAKY OF THE EEVOLUTION. [1T79.

in town. Tliose who pitched marquees on the common to the
sonth-west of the town, were quite out of the line of fire ; and
some of the militia officers' ladies, and several other women,
repaired to the lines for safety, and not one of them were hurt.
Many of the inhabitants went on board the ships in the river,
and others retired to Hutchinson's island, opposite the town,
which you may remember is a rice swamp, and very unwhole-
some, j^articularly in the fall. I twice took a stroll to that isl-
and, and in Mr. M'Gillvray's rice barn the ladies told me
there were fifty men, women, and children. Other places
seemed to be equally crowded ; but neither the ships nor isl-
and were places of security, for many shells fell into the
river, and some into the shipping, and it required only a
greater elevation of the French mortars and more powder, to
throw the shells among them on the island. One of their brass
cannon threw a great number of balls into a point of Hutch-
inson's island that lay next the town ; besides, a descent on
the island was expected from the French frigate and galleys
in the back river ; and at one time, some gun-boats from the
French ships landed there, but a party of armed negroes drove
them off. In short, the siti:ation of Savannah was at one time
deplorable. A small garrison in an extensive country was
surrounded on the land by a powerful enemy, and its seacoast
blocked up by one of the strongest fleets that ever visited
America. Tliere was not a single spot where the women and
children could be put in safety ; and the numerous desertions
daily weakened that force which was at first inadequate to
man such extensive lines ; but the situation of the ground
would not permit the able engineer to narrow them. How-
ever, with the assistance of God, British valor surmounted
every difficulty, and the siege has rendered famous a sickly
hole, which was in woods, and had only one white man in it
at the time General Oglethorpe landed. But insignificant as
some may think it, this place is the key of the southern prov-
inces, and the Gibraltar of the Gulf passage ; for to the south
of this province there is not a port on the continent that will
receive a sloop of war. Most of the houses in the town had
banks of earth thrown up, and those that had cellars secured

1779.] SIEGE OF SAVANNAH. 229

them as well as circumstances would admit of. Captain
Ejiowles, for the security of the ladies in his cellar, had in
some places thrown up a bank of sand on the outside, and in
other places put large casks filled with sand ; he also propped
up the floor over the cellar, and put such a quantity of sand
on it that it was homb-proof. This worthy man and able
officer, had been taken prisoner by the rebels in Carolina, and
was on parole unexchanged ; he therefore could not go into
the batteries, which was a loss to his Majesty's service. To
add to our misfortunes, we heard during the siege that the
Experiment, Sii- James "Wallace commander, was taken on
the coast by the French fleet. She had money on board to
pay the troops, a brigadier-general for this place, and several
other officers. On the seventh and eighth of October, at night,
the French fired carcases on the town to set it on fire ; but
by the vigilance of those who were appointed by the general
to act as firemen, only one house was burnt. The enemy find-
ing that then- artillery did not naake such an impression on the
town as to bring about a capitiilation, at half-past four on the
morning of Saturday the nineteenth of October, marched up in
columns, and attacked two redoubts on the west; but the
principal attack was made on a redoubt built by the sprmg near
the edge of the road that goes out to Mr. M'Gillvi'ay's plan-
tation. Tlie enemy showed themselves in parties all round the
lines, and were, by the blessing of God, repulsed everywhere.
But the principal slaughter was at the redoubt near the spring,
where their loss was very great. On the side of the British
troops only one captain and seven men were killed. How-
ever, I do not mean to be particular on this head, as his excel-
lency the general's account will be exact and authentic. I
shall only observe, that some who were taken prisoners by the
French, and afterwards exchanged, said that the French ac-
knowledged that they embarked twenty-five hundred men less
than they landed. Even the people at Charleston admit that
twelve hundred French and rebels fell on the ninth. Amongst
the slain were Charles Price, formerly prothonotary, who was
killed in the governor's plantation, nearly opposite his own
house ; young Baillie and John Jones, who formerly lived out

230 DI.VJKY OF TIIB EEVOLUTION. [17Y9.

at Sunbuiy, and some others from Carolina and Georgia,
whom you did not know. Tlie French behaved with great
bravery, and several of them got on the top of the redoubt ;
bnt they all accuse the rebels of backwardness, and the French
officers mentioned them in the most contemptible manner to the
British officers that went out with flags. Tlie affair of the
ninth made such an impression on the enemy, that their fire
was afterwards very slack, and they were chiefly employed in
removing their camion and stores. On the nineteenth of Octo-
ber, the French quitted their lines, on the twenty-first of the
same month they embarked, and two or three days ago the last
of their ships quitted this port. You will naturally wish to
knoAV Avhat the amount of the forces were that acted against
us. I have it from good authority that about forty-flve hun-
dred men landed from the French ships ; and although the
number of rebels is not known, yet they are generally agreed
to have ' amounted to about twenty-five hundred at least ;
some say a greater number. Tlie French fleet consisted of
twenty-two sail of the line and fourteen frigates, as I men-
tioned before, besides a number of Carolina galleys and priva-
teers ; and the French took from us the Experiment of fifty
guns, Sir James "Wallace commander, and the Ariel of twen-
ty, commanded by Captain M'Kenzie. The British regulars
in the lines never amounted to two thousand eflective men ;
the militia that came in were about three hundred and fifty,
and the sailors hardly exceeded that number. Many who did
not think so much of religion before, now acknowledge that
our deliverance was miraculous, and arose from the immediate
interposition of God in our favor. Had tlie French marclied
up to town immediately, or had they prevented Colonel Mait-
land joining us with the troops under his command, I will
leave you to judge what the consequences must have been.
At first I found numbers in despair ; but I did all that I could
to support those who desponded, and I would not sufi"er tlie
language of fear to pass my lips. Colonel Maitland died on the
night of the twenty-sixth of the month, (October,) regretted
by all that knew him. Tlie French and Americans plundered
the country in tlie most shameful manner. Not content with

1779.] THE DEFEAT AT SAVANNAH. 231

taking away provisions and stock, they even robbed poor people
of their bedding and clothes. Colonel Mullryne came in before
the siege, as did most of his Majesty's well-aftected subjects ;
but Mrs. MiillrjTie was at her own house all the time, and it
would shock you to hear her relate how basely the French
and Americans treated her. Tliey pillaged the hoTise of every
thing but the furniture of one room. Many of those who
had taken the oaths to government after Colonel Campbell's
arrival, and had obtained his Majesty's protection, thought the
French and rebels were so sure of taking the town, that they
joined them. Several of these false brethren are noAV in jail." '

The following are some of the reasons that have been as-
signed why the assault on Savannah did not succeed, viz. :

First. The enemy had a much more numerous garrison
than had been represented, being said to consist jj^^^^jj^^f^^^^^,
of about seventeen hundred effective regulars, and &"' "t savannah.
a great number of sailors, marines, militia, armed blacks, &c.

Secondly. Tlieir having the advantage of the presence, skill,
and activity of Colonel Maitland ; who, while the American
army were obliged to wait for the bringing up proper cannon
and mortars from the fleet, (which took up many days, and was
attended with inconceivable difliculties on account of the dis-
tance of the shipping and a series of tempestuous weather,)
was night and day incessantly engaged in adding to the
strength and number of the works, upon which it is said he
employed upwards of two hundred negroes.

Thirdly. The enemy having by some means or other dis-
covered the approach of the American columns a full hour be-
fore it was possible for them to reach their respective stations,
by which they had an opportunity of pouring iipon their re-
spective assailants such a heavy and incessant front, flank, and
cross fire, as no troops whatever could have sustained without
being disordered, and occasioned the order for discontinuing the
assault, even while the brave French troops had gained one of
the enemy's works, and ours, as brave troops, another."

' ITpcott, v. S35. ■■■ New York Journal, December 20.

232 DIAET OF THE EEVOLUTION. [17Y9.

Colonel Delancet told a good story last niglit at Panton's,
of General Robertson and the commander-in-chief's cook. It
General Kobertson ^^ '^^'^^^ known that the general is almost too fond
and the Cook, ^f ^|jg table, and lie especially feels his failing at
this time, when it is almost impossible to obtain any fresh
provisions.

One morning the general, in a fit of despair at seeing
nothing but salt codfish for breakfast, ofi'ered a premium to
any one who would vary the style of serving it ; and a fresh
premium for every new style. This reached the ears of General
Clinton's cook, who produced for dinner, as the first variation,
cod au codling. With this the general was delighted, and he
ordered a brimming premium to the cook. At supper the cod
appeared in another style equally palatable, and the cook was
rewarded with a still higher premium. This was succeeded by
another, and still another style, until the old general, in another
kind of despair, ordered a servant to tell the cuisinier that if
he made another variation with codfish he should be hanged,
as a few more styles would render him bankrupt.'

October 26.-^Last evening the invincible troops of Biut-
ain, having evacuated Newport, in Ehode Island, embarked
British Evacuate °^^ board the transports which laj^ ready to receive
Newport, E. I. tiieij^ . and soon after the whole fleet sailed,, it is
said, to New York, to assist in defending that last asylum of
British tyranny in the thirteen United States. The American
troops took possession of the town this morning. It being
evident that Sir Henry Clinton ordered that motion, it will not
be in the power of his rivals to rob him of the title of Moon-
shine General, to which his celebrated retreat from Philadel-

' Elliot Manuscript. This anecdote is very similar to the following: — The
Earl of Southampton, in Queen Elizabeth's reign, was the pattern of learning.
Spenser, who, like other poets, was very poor, carried his Faerie Queene to his lord-
ship's house and sent it up stairs by the steward. When the Earl had read two
stanzas, he said, " Give that man twenty pounds." Having read it a little farther
he said, "Give him twenty pounds more ; " then proceeding he said, "Give him
another ten pounds ; " and at length, " Turn that fellow out of the house, for if I
give as he writes, I shall give away all my patrimony." — Eivington\ Gazette,
December 26, 1778.

1Y79.] NEWPORT EVACUATED. 333

pliia tliroiigli the Jerseys, lias already given him the fairest
pretensions.

It is reported that several officers entreated their general to
delay the evacuation till to-day, that the epoch of their King's
accession to the throne might not be disgraced by the evacua-
tion of one of his most important posts in America. But old
Silver Pipe, desirous as he was to gratify their sensibility,
thought that his situation could not excuse such condescension
were he ever reduced to justify it before a court-martial.

The enemy have left at Khode Island a large quantity of
forage and fuel, with a number of horses, &c. Tlie barracks
at Brenton's Point (where they embarked) are burnt ; but the
others, with some works in and near the town, are left in good
order.'

October 27. — ^Testeedat morning, about two o'clock, the
Queen's rangers, with the cavalry belonging to that regiment,
and ten light horse under the command of Cap- simcoe-s

f~, 1 . 1 r^ T 1 Enterprise in New

tarn Stewart, who are stationed on btaten isl- Jersey.
and, landed at Amboy, in Jersey, and proceeded as far as
Bonanitown, when the foot returned to Amboy, and the cav-
alry, amounting to seventy, commanded by Colonel Simcoe,
advanced to Bound Brook, where they destroyed eighteen
large flat-bottomed boats, and some stores. They then pro-

' New Hampshire Gazette, November 9. An ofiScer in Colonel Jaelison's regi-
ment, in writing of tliis event, says: — "At last the heroic plunJerers of the amia-
ble prince of Great Britain have left one of their most important posts in America,
and joined their brave associates in every thing detestable at New York. But be
it spoken to the honor of Mr. Prescot, before he left the town he forbade its being
plundered. Tommony Fort is left complete in every particular. How completely
wretched is the situation of those poor despicable Tory animals, who have been
so long and so ardently wishing for Ihe subjection of their country, and who are
now deserted by their protectors, and obliged to fling themselves on the mercy of
their injured country. But there is this reflection for their comfort, that let their
sufferings be what they may, tliey will not be greater than the poor dogs deserve." *
— New Hampshire Gazette, November 9.

* Joseph ■Wanton, Esq., finding the Britons were about to evacuate Newport, loaded a
vessel with his efi'ects, in order to talie his departure with them, hut the master being on shore,
and the mate perceiving a fair gale for putting off, slipped out of the harbor, and instead of talcing
the destined course, carried the vessel and its effects to Providence, where they were very
cheerfully received. — New York Journal, November S.

234 DIAET OF THE EE^'OLUTION. [1779.

ceeded to Somerset court Louse, twentj-eiglit miles from Am-
boy, released tlie loyalists confined, set fire to it, and destroyed
a large quantity of forage and stores, collected for Mr. Wash-
ington's ai-my.

On their return, on tlie south side of the Earitan, within
two miles of Brunswick, in a piece of woods, they were fired
upon by a large body of rebels who lay in ambush. The cav-
alry immediately charged and dispersed the rebels ; but Colo-
nel Simcoe having, in the charge, his horse shot under him, in
the fall received a bruise which stunned him, and his gallant
party, thinking him killed, left him on the field, approached
to Bnmswick, and on the hill near the barracks they discov-
ered one hundred and seventy rebels drawn up to receive them-
Tliese were also immediately charged and defeated, with great
slaughter. Among the killed, we are informed, was a rebel
major named Edgar, a Captain Voorhies, and another captain,
besides many other officers. Tlie party then proceeded on the
road towards South Amboy ; and several miles from Bruns-
wick they joined the foot, who had passed over to South Am-
boy. In this excursion near thirty prisoners were taken. The
whole loss sustained by the enterprise, is one man killed and
four taken, besides the brave Colonel Simcoe, who, we hear, is
now a prisoner at Brunswick.'

Another account of this enterprise is given by an ofiicer
who belonged to Simcoe's party, as follows : — " Twenty-two
men, of the Buck's light dragoons, forty-six of the ranger
hussars, and a few others as guides, landed at Perth Amboy
on the morning of the twenty-sixth of October, under the com-
mand of Lieutenant-Colonel Simcoe. "We immediately pro-
ceeded through Quibbletown, and early arrived at Mr. Wash-
ington's grand camp, with an intent, if the colonel thought it
an object, to destroy the huts ; but were informed they had
been sold to the inhabitants, some of which upon the right of
the line had been pulled do-mi ; the remainder the colonel
thought proper to leave standing. We then pursued our route
to Karitan, in the way to which the Buck's troops surrounded

' Xcw York Gazette, Norcnibcr 1.

1779.] COLONEL 6IMC0E CArTUEED. 235

the house of Mr.Yanliorne, made prisoners one captain, one lieu ■
tenant, and another person, who signed their paroles of honor.
We then continued our march to Karitan, where we completely
burned and destroyed eighteen large boats on travelling car-
riages, one ammunition wagon, and a quantity of forage and
some stores. We there received a single shot from a distant
liill. After this work was completed, we crossed to Somerset,
released two British prisoners, and consumed the court house
by fire. On our retreat from Somerset to Brunswick, the reb-
els were discovered in a wood iipon our right flank ; upon our
left a strong rail fence. Tlio wood was so thick that it was im-
possible to charge the enemy. We pushed through their line
of fire in open files, at which time Colonel Simcoe's horse was
killed, and himself much hurt by the fall. Tlie command then
devolved on Captain Sandford, of the Buck's troop, who, as
soon as he was informed of the colonel's misfortune, collected
about twenty dragoons, with which he entered the wood, but
found it impossible (owing to its thickness) to act to advantage
against the rebels. Indeed, it was the opinion of all at that
time, that the colonel was killed. Captain Sandford then or-
dered a retreat towards Bnmswick, the mounted rebels in his
rear increasing apace. Upon the plains behind Brunswick,
we found ourselves in a critical situation — infantry in our front,
formed upon the very road we were obliged to pass, popping
shots from both flanks, and the mounted men pressing upon
our rear. In this situation we had but one resource, which was
to cut oiir way through them if they kept their ground in
front ; this would have been dangerous with their mounted
men in our rear. Captain Sandford, after drawing them in
the rear across a ravine, faced about the squadron and charged
them with success : killed a Captain Yoorhies, and some oth-
ers, woimded and took the noted rebel Hampton prisoner.
After forming, we advanced towards the infantry in front, who
took to the woods, in passing which we must have snfl'ered
much ; in order to avoid this, Captain Sandford inclined the
squadron to the left, as if going through Brunswick. To pre-
vent our retreat that way, the rebels in front pushed to their
right. We took the advantage, and with a smart gallop gained

236 DIAET OF THE REVOLUTION. [1779.

tlie left flank of tlie enemy, and passed tliem witliout receiving
a single shot ; after which we continued our retreat to South
River. In our way, we fell in with small parties, which we
either killed or made prisoners. A number of rebels had been
purposely despatched to break up the bridge at South Eiver,
which would have completely cut oflT our retreat ; but fortu-
nately, tlie infantry of the rangers having got timely posses-
sion of that pass, we reached South Eiver before four o'clock
in the afternoon. We did not march less than seventy miles
through this rebellious province ; and had it not been for Col-
onel Simcoe's misfortune, our loss would not be worth men-
tioning. The loss of the colonel, who was by all supposed to
be dead, inspired the two troops with additional coiirage ;
and to revenge this misfortune, no force the rebels could
have sent against us, but would have been bravely charged
by them." '

THE CONGRATULATION.

Dii boni, boni quid porto ? — Terence.

Joy to great Congress, joy an hundred fold,
The grand cajolers are themselves eajol'd ;

In vain has 's'' artifice been tried,

And Louis swell'd with treachery and pride,
Who reigns supreme in heav'n deception spurns,
And on the author's head his mischief turns ;
What pains were talien to procure D'Estaing,
His fleet's dispersed, and Congress may go hang.

Joy to great Congress, joy an hundred fold,
The grand cajolers are themselves eajol'd ;
Heaven's King sends forth the hurricane, and strips
Of all their glory the perfidious ships.
His ministers of wrath the storm direct,
Nor can the prince of air his French protect.
St. George, St. David show'd themselves true hearts,
Saint Andrew and St. Patrick topp'd their parts ;
With right Eolian puBs the winds they blew,
Crack went the masts, the sails to shivers flew ;
Such honest saints sliall never be forgot,
Saint Denis, aud Saint Tammany, go rot.

' Rivington's Gazette, November 3.

' Supposed to allude to Dr. Franklin's services at the Court of France.

1779.] THE CONGEATULATION. 237

Joy to great Congress, joy an hundred fold,
The grand cojolers are themselves cajol'd;
Old Satan holds a council in mid-air,
Hear the black dragon furious rage and swear;
Are these the triumphs of my Gallic friends ?
How will you ward this blow, ray trusty fiends?
What remedy for this unlucky job?
What art shall raise the spirits of the mob ?
Fly swift, ye sure supporters of my realm,
E'er this iU news the rebels overwhelm.
Invent, say any thing to make them mad ;

Tell them the King No, dev'ls are not so bad ;

The dogs of Congress at the King let loose.
But ye, brave dev'ls, avoid such mean abuse.

Joy to great Congress, joy an hundred fold.
The grand cajolers are themselves cajol'd ;
What thinks Sir Washington of this mischance.
Blames he not those who put their trust in France ?
A broken reed comes pat into his mind,
Egypt and France by rushes are defined.
Basest of kingdoms underneath the skies,
Kingdoms that could not profit their aUies,
How could the tempest play him such a prank?
Blank is his prospect, and his visage blank.
Why from West Point his armies has he brought ?
Can nought be done ? — sore sighs he at the thought,
Back to his mountains Washington may trot.
He take this city ■ — yes, when ice is hot.

Joy to great Congress, joy an hundred fold,
The grand cajolers are themselves cajol'd ;
Ah, poor mihtia of the Jersey State,
Your hopes are bootless, you are come too late ;
Tour four hours' plunder of New York is fled.
And grievous hunger haunts you in its stead ;
Sorrow and sighing seize the Yankee race.
When the brave Briton looks them in the face.
The brawny Hessian, the bold refugee,
Appear in arms, and lo! the rebels flee.
Each in his bowels griping spankuo feels.
Each drops his haversack, and trusts his heels,
Scamp'ring and scouring on the fields they run.
And here you find a sword, and there a gun.

' It was rumored in New York a short time previous to the publication of this
poem, that General Washington meditated an attack upon that city. — See Riving-
twi's Gazette and Gable's Mercury.

238 DIAET OF THE EEVOLTJTION. [1779.

Joy to great Congress, joy an hundred fold,
The grand cajolers are themselves cajol'd ;
The doleful tidings Philadelphia reach.
And Duffield ' cries, — the wicked make a breach ;
Members of Congress in confusion meet,
And with pale countenance each other greet.
Kg comfort, brother ? brother, none at all,
Fall'n is our tow'r, yea brok'n down our wall ;
Oh, brother, things are at a dreadful pass,
Brother, we sinn'd in going to the mass.^
The Lord who taught our fingers how to fight,
For this denied to curb the tempest's might,
Our paper coin refus'd for flour we see.
And lawyers will not take it for a fee.

Joy to great Congress, joy an hundred fold.
The grand cajolers are themselves cajol'd ;
What caus'd the French from Parker's fleet to steal?
They wanted thirty thousand casks of meal.
Where are they now ? can mortal man reply ?
Who finds them out must have a lynx's eye ;
Some place them in the ports of Chesapeake,
Others account them bound to Martinique ;
Some think to Boston they intend to go.
And some suppose them in the deep below.
One thing is certain, be they where they will.
They keep their triumphs most exceeding still,
They have not even Pantagruel's luck.
Who conquer'd two old women and a duck.

Joy to great Congress, joy an hundred fold,
The grand cajolers are themselves cajol'd;
How long shall the deluded people look
For the French squadron moor'd at Sandy Hook ;
Of all their hopes the comfort and the stay,
This vile deceit at length must pass away.
What imposition can be thought on next,
To cheer their partisans with doubts perplex'd.
Dollars on dollars heap'd up to the skies.
Their value sinks the more the more they rise ;

' George Duffield, P. D., pastor of the Second Presbyterian Chm-ch in Philadel-
phia. In the struggle with Great Britain he was an early and zealous friend of the
colonies. He wa's born in October, 1732, and died on the 2d of February, 1790.

^ An allusion to the celebration of the 4th of July at the Catholic Church.
Sec page 178, ante.

1779.] THE CONGEATULATION. 239

Bank notes of bankrupts struck without a fund,
Puff 'd for a season, will at last be shunn'd ;
Call forth invention, ye renowu'd in guile.
New falsehoods frame in matter and in style ;
Send some enormous fiction to the press,
Again prepare the circular address.
With lies, with nonsense keep the people drunk,
ror should they once reflect, your pow'r is sunk.

Joy to great Congress, joy an hundred fold,
The grand cajolers are themselves cajol'd.
The farce of empire will be finish'd soon.
And each mock monarch dwindle to a loon ;
Mock money and mock States shall melt away,
And the mock troops disljand for want of pay.
E'en now decisive ruin is prepar'd,
E'en now the heart of Huntington is scar'd.'
Seen or unseen, above, on earth, below.
All things conspire to give the final blow ;
Heav'n has ten thousand thunderbolts to dart,
From hell ten thousand livid flames will start,
Myriads of swords are ready for the field.
Myriads of lurking daggers are conceal'd.
In injur'd bosoms dark revenge is nurs'd.
Yet but a moment and the storm shall burst.

Joy to great Congress, joy an hundred fold,
The grand cajolers are themselves cajol'd ;
Now war suspended by the scorching heat.
Springs from his tent, and shines in arms complete ;
Now sickness that of late made heroes pale.
Flies from the keenness of the northern gale ;
Firmness and enterprise united wait
The last command, to strike the stroke of fate ;
Now Boston trembles, Carolina quakes.
And Philadelphia to the centre shakes ;
There is, whose councils the just moment scan.
Whose wisdom meditates the mighty plan.
He when the season is mature shall speak,
(All heav'n shall plaud him, and all hell shall shriek,)
At his dread fiat tumult shall retire,
Abhor'd rebellion sicken and expire.
The fall of Congress prove the world's relief.
And deathless glory crown the godlike chief.^

' Governor Samuel Huntington, of Connecticut, at this time the president of
the Congress. ^ Sir Henry Clinton.

240 DIAET OF THE KEVOLTJTION. [1779.

Joy to great Congress, joy an hundred fold,
The grand cajolers are themselves cajol'd ;
What now is left of Continental brags ?
Taxes unpaid, though payable in rags.
What now remains of Continental force?
Battalions mould'ring, waste without resource.
What rests there yet of Continental sway ?
A ruin'd people ripe to disobey ;
Hate now of men, and soon to be the jest,
Such is your state, ye monsters of the West.
Tet must on every face a smile be worn,
Whilst every breast with agony is torn ;
Hopeless yourselves, yet hope you must impart,
And comfort others with an aching heart.
Ill fated they, who lost at home, must boast
Of help expected from a foreign coast ;
Eovf wretched is their lot to France and Spain,
Who look for succor, but who look in vain.

Joy to great Congress, joy an hundred fold.
The grand cajolers are themselves cajol'd;
Courage, ray boys, dismiss your chilling fears,
Attend to me, I'll put you in your gears.
Come, I'll instruct you how to advertise
Your missing friends, your hide and seek allies ;
Otes! — If any man alive will bring
News of the squadron of the Christian King ;
If any man will find out Count D'Estaing,
With whose scrub actions both the Indies rang;
If any man will ascertain on oath,
AVhat is become of Monsieur de la Mothe ; '
Whoever these important points explains.
Congress will nobly pay him for his pains.
Of pewter dollars what both hands can hold ;
A thimble full of plate, a mite of gold ;
The lands of some big Tory he shall get,
And strut a famous col'nel en brevet,
And last to honor hirn, (we scorn to bribe,)
We'll make him chief of the Oneida tribe."

NoTEirBEE 4. — A WRITEE in the ISTew York Packet of this
date, offers the following to Sir Henry Clinton : — AiWressto
"Although your military track in America is Gonemi ciinton.
marked with a variety of misfortunes, yet is it no less Avorthy

' A commander of the French fleet. ^ Kivington's Gazette, Nov. 6, 1779.

1779.] ADDEESS TO CLINTOX. 2-trl

of panegyric than that of yonr predecessors. Like them, you
have adventured your character in the execution of desultory
objects ; but lilio them, you may not return to reap the rewards
of your labors.

" I will presume that your cabinet, after four years' projec-
tion, had conceived the idea of reducing the States by the cap-
ture of West Point ; or, if this could not be established, had
directed the establishment of a post in its vicinity. Could
these sages have given jox\ force and wisdom to have captured,
with "West Point, the American army, it woiild perhaps have
been doing something effectual towards their project. But the
reduction and occupancy of this post on any other condition,
was a mere sound ; a rattle, like all other rattles, only calcu-
lated to please for the moment.

" Had you arrived at West Point before General "Washing-
ton could have reached it from Middlebrook, (which you might
have done witliout a possibility of interruption, from your
commanding the water,) and carried the post by storm, it
must have been at the expense of all further operations, and
at the certain risk of being besieged by the American army.
Had you invested the place. General "Washington woiild
alone, M'itli his forces, have been sufficient to liavc raised the
siege, and you might have lost your heavy cannon and stores,
if not the greatest part of your army ; or, had you carried it
without any material loss, still the object of the ministry would
have been defeated. A new fort would have instantly ap-
peared on the Hudson, capable of insulting West Point, and
of rendering its supposed advantages nugatory and i-idiculous.

" Your orders arrived, and yon received them with all the
complacency of accustomed submission. Tlie caution, how-
ever, with which you moved towards an object considered as
the most capital in America, at least does credit to your pru-
dence. You approached within nine miles of West Point, and
halted before a small work at King's Ferry that could neither
disturb the passage of your shipping, nor give obstruction to
the progress of your army. Its design Avas merely to give a
show of cover to the ferry Avay, and prevent the piracies of your
picaroons.

Vol. II.— 16

242 DIAET OF THE EEVOLUTIOJT. [1T79.

" Sir William Howe could not have invested this insig-
nificant place with more unmeaning formality. No display
of ostentatious arrangements was overlooked on this occasion ;
and Mr. Andre, your aid, as if in compliance with the taste
of his general, signed a capitulation, in all the pomp of a vain-
glorious solemnity, on the very edge of the glacis, which he
had gained under cover of a flag.

" "What, Sir Henry, could you intend by this farce ? "What
excuse will a person of Mr. Andre's reputed sense find for this
parade ? Was it that you were obliged to do something in
order to avoid the scandal of doing nothing ? If you meant
to astonish all Europe, there is no doubt but the intention has
been answered. The capture of fifty men after a foolish vari-
ety of movements, and under a A^ain pomp of capitulation,
must appear to all the world a strange efibrt towards the re-
duction of America — -but a poor recompense for the millions
voted by Parliament, which you have cheerfully expended for
this single purpose.

" When you established your garrison on each side the
ferry, and improved Stony Point till it acquired, in the lan-
guage peculiar to your nation, the title of the American Gib-
raltar, what was the good it comprehended ? It did not inter-
rupt the provisions for the army of your enemy — their wagons
came and returned as usual. A few dragoons and a company
or two of light troops under Major Lee, circumscribed you to
the lines you had erected ; and the country between Haver-
straw and Powle's Hook afforded its usual supplies. Thus
your enemy experienced no injury, and you felt a tliousand
inconveniences from your new situation.

" It is a maxim in Eochefoucauld, ' that fortune turns every
thing to the advantage of her favorites.' By this rule it would
seem that neither you nor your nation are within her patron-
age, for the business of both, since the beginning of this happy
contest, has been constantly going backwards. Nay, as if she
had placed you at the extremity of her malice, she has even
made tlie blunders of your directors serve as the steps to your
ruin ; and to complete the catalogue of your evils, she haunts
your bewildered imagination with the fate of Burgoyne.

1779.] ADDKESS TO CLINTON. 248

" IIow often, Sir Harry, in your affairs, has tlie song of the
morning been closed with the evening tear ! You had scarce
finislicd your despatches, which were to flatter the hopes of
an all-expecting ministry, when Stony Point was stormed and
carried at the bayonet by a body of troops but little superior
in numbers to its garrison.

" In your account of this event (which holds so small a cor-
ner in the Gazette, as if wishing to escape the public eye,)
have yon told your nation that the American soldiery, in the
full career of their ardor, exhibited a compassion and magna-
nimity of which the practice of their army had not aflbrded one
single solitary proof?

" As this place was of small moment to the States, when
your stores and pi'isoners were safely lodged you were permit-
ted to re-possess it without ojjposition. The only circumstance
that could have added to the entertainment of a re-possession,
you happily adopted. You landed your disgusted troops under
a furious waste of ammunition, directed from your shipping at
both flanks of the rock, while the enemy at several miles' dis-
tance, wore enjoying their victory, and laughing at such a
profusion of folly. AYas it, Su- Ilarry, to soothe the short-
sighted sagacity of a deluded people that you again attempted
to hold what you had so ostentatiously acrpiired and so de-
gradingly lost? or because the jninisterial mist Avas not to be
too rudely dissipated, that yon were obliged to re-occupy a few
acres of improfitable rock ?

"But scarce had you announced the second solemnity of
re-possessing Stony Point, when the ministry were compelled
to shed fresh tears over the surprise of Powle's Hook.

" The situation of this post gave it every possible seciirity,
and you might have laughed over the midnight bottle without
imputation of folly. Formed on a peninsida, within protection
of jour shipping, and the instant support of the city of New
York, the approach hazardous in its nature, and rendered still
more so by the difticulty of keeping the least movement of
your enemy from the knowledge of your emissaries that were
scattered for that purpose in your neighborhood. The retreat
was equally dangerous, being conducted along several miles of

244 DIAKY OF TIIE EEVOLUTION. [1779.

your flanks, and liable at every step to intersection. All these
obstacles -were surmounted, and another ray plucked from that
star whose lustre is nearly extinguished.

" Did the tale end here, you might have solaced yourself in
the full security of reward. But the strength of your army
was to be worn do'nai in forming new works on both sides of
King's Ferry, and the health of your troops Avasted in nightly
watchings to guard against a surprise, and to add to the tri-
umph of your enemy by their evacuation.

" How shall we account for this change m your conduct ?
"Was it the new fascines which were ordered to be cut, and Gen-
eral Wayne's taking post on Ilaverstraw Heights, Avithin five
miles of your principal fortress, the bringing of a few boats
down the North Eiver, and the armies on each side of the ferry
under Lord Stirling and General HoAve, drawing nearer your
works, that forced jou from a place Avithout making the small-
est resistance ? It is, however, a just punishment, that Avhat
Avas occupied from folly should be CA'acuated through fear.
HoAV AA-ill you explain to the ministry the mystery of your
campaign ; and hoAV Avill they explain to the people its laby-
rinth of absurdities ? Hoav will they make it appear that it
Avas proper to do one day what was improper the next — that
to concper America it Avas necessary to disgrace their arms —
that to hold King's Ferry was right, and that to hold King's
Ferry was wrong ? That it Avas expedient, and founded upon
true English policy, to expend several millions of money to
bring an army up the North River and take only a part of it
back again, after having lost in prisoners, and by deaths, and
desertions, a tenth of the Avhole !

" Alas, Sir Harry ! in aiming at a campaign, you have ren-
dered yourself ridiculous to the world. They Avill suppose
that you Avanted either means or capacity ; or that, possessing
these, you mistook your enemy and ventured against your
superior in both. Tlie momentary hopes you had raised, like
the fugitive gleams of a Avinter's sun, have been scarcely felt
before they Avere succeeded by all the severity of disappoint-
ment. Even the flatterers your prospects had draAvn around
you Avithhold their Avontod adulation, and dispose of your char

1779.] MAJOR BEAEMOEE CAPTUKED. 2J:5

acter, in order to make peace witli your supposed successor.
You have even dishonored your new formed acquirements, in
tlie disgrace of publisliing negro proclamations.' You have
suffered yourself to be repeatedly defeated, by a people boast-
ingly called cowards, and ridiculously, rebels. You have
taken away from your Prince the chief support of his speeches,
and the courage and conduct of his commanders. To the dull
car that the Dutch turned to Sir Joseph Yorke's plaintive
memorial, you have added the storm of Stony Point, the sur-
prise of Powle's Hook, and degrading evacuation of King's
Ferry : a campaign commenced in exultation, and ended in
Backcloth. You have multiplied the enemies of your patrons,
and opened against Lord North the full-mox;tlied cry of his
antagonist, Charles Fox.

" But I leave you, Sir Henry, to your own reflections. I
cannot increase their severity ; and your present situation
needs not the scourge of the satirist." '

ISTovEMBEE 8. — Last night Colonel Armand, with one hun-
dred infantry and about thirty horse, marched down as far as
William's, within four miles of King's Bridge,
near New York, where he posted his infantry to " '
cover his retreat, and with twenty dragoons pushed for Major
Bearmore's quarters, at Alderman Leggett's, three miles below
William's Bridge ; where he arrived about nine o'clock, took
Major Bearmore and five other prisoners, a number of horses
and saddles, and returned without the loss of a single man ;
although Colonel Worm, with a body of eight hundred Ger-
mans, lay on the north side of King's Bridge, and might have
interrupted his retreat at William's by marching less than two
miles. Tills enterprise not only reflects great honor on Colo-
nel Armand, but renders the State most essential service by
suppressing the exertions of one of their most active partisan
officers, whose uniform endeavor has been to distress and injure
the inhabitants of this country.'

' Sir Henry Clinton'3 proclamation to sell negroes captured from the enemy.
See page 176, ante.

' New Jersey Gazette, December 29. ' Xew York Journal, November 15.

246 DIARY OF THE EEVOLUTION. [1779.

NovEMBEK 9. — ^Tiiis morning, the Honoralile Henry Lau-
rens, Esq., set out on his journey to Charleston, in South Car-
olina, from whence, it is said, he will embark,
fnry aurens. ^^ executc, at oue of the principal Courts of En-
rope, an important trust committed to him by Congress. The
great ability and strict integrity with which this gentleman
tilled the important station of President of Congress, acquired
him universal esteem and respect ; — and his truly patriotic at-
tention to the rights of the several States, gained him the warm-
est affection of all who kncAV him, and of the people of Penn-
sylvania in particular. Several members of Congress, and a
mimber of the principal officers of the State, waited on him
as far as the lower feriy on Schuylkill."

The advantage, says a correspondent, of the revolution that
has taken place in America, to all the lovers of liberty in Eu-
The Artvantn-es of ^^P*^' must bc immense. It seems to be a dispen-
the nevoiution. gatiou of Heavcn favorable to them, as well as to
the inhabitants of the States. America is now become an
open asylum to all that are oppressed by the old corrupt gov-
ernments in Europe. Tlie subjects of the latter will be dis-
posed to emigrate to us, as they feel their situation at home
groM'ing uneasy by the weight of arbitrary power, and the ill
administration of government. "\Ve shall afford a happy re-
lief to those who come over to us, and no inconsiderable one
to those who remain behind, inasmuch as those governments,
and particularly that of England and Ireland, for fear of los-
ing their people, will relax the reins of power, and invite their
remaining at home, by indulging their love of liberty in some
instances, and lightening their burdens. We are, therefore,
not only fighting for our o^vn cause, but for the cause of human
kind in general, and particularly for that of onr former fellow-
subjects in Britain and Ireland. Millions will bless the wis-
dom, the fortitude, and perseverance, that have nobly effected
this revolution, M'ho will never live in America ; at the same
time it must give a particular relief to tlic blessings of liberty

' rennsylvania Packet, November 11.

1779.] WASHINGTON ESCAPES DROWNING. 247

enjoyed by the subjects of the United States, that the pur-
cliase of them for ourselves must be of such essential advan-
tage to distant regions. Tliis, in the impartial estimation of
mankind, must give a particular brilliancy to the success of our
arms, and enroll the names of those men whose wisdom and
fortitude have principally effected so happy a change, among
tlie most illustrious heroes, and the greatest benefactors of
mankind.'

Decembee 1. — ^Notwithstanding the flattering accounts of
the British affairs published in some of the late New York
papers, the wise men of the British Parliament

, -,-,-,■ ,> 1 1 . Lord Carendish.

draw a most melancholy picture or the calamitous
circumstances of this and of their own country. Lord John
Cavendish, in a late debate, said, " He would spend his for-
tune and hazard his life against the unnatural enemies of his
country; and he would do as much to bring ministry, the
cause of all the nation's calamities, to their deserts ; " declar-
ing, with all the enthusiasm of resolution, " that his resent-
ment should be found firm and lasting." He further observes,
" tliat nothing less than the most exemplary punishment ought
to be inflicted upon them, and their respective estates confis-
cated, and applied towards the expenses of the war." Sir
George Saville, Colonel Barre, Mr. Baker, Mr. Burke, with
others, were tremendously severe upon administration, the lat-
ter declaring that he " would oppose the gi-anting

° . -t^ .n 1 Edmund Burko.

any money, or going to any measures, till the
present administration were dealt with as they ought to be."
Lord North replying with sarcastic wit and contemptuous
pleasantry, Lord George Cavendish advised him " to be sober
and serious that day, and to throw his wit and humor aside, for
that they would serve no longer." "

Decesibee G. — Advices from the country are, that General
Washington and Mr. Mead, his aide-de-camp, and his adjutant-
general, Avere near being drowned last Saturday Aveek by the

' New Jersey Gazette, December 8. " Same.

24:8 DIAKT OF THE EEVOLUTION. [1779.

overtuming of a whale boat at a place called Sandy Point, on
■Washinston Hudson Eiver ; that all the ai-niy but a gan-ison
Kscap^s Drowning, of twelvc hundred left at West Point, are march-
ing do-wn the country in divisions under their proper generals,
supposed for Morris county ; and it is conjectured they -will
hut this winter either in Morristo\vn, the Notch below Passaic
Falls, or the mountain in the rear of Mr. Kemble's. Tlie army
has been short of flour for some time past, on account of the
dryness of the season. Mr. Jacob Arnold's house, in Morris-
town, is taken for General Sullivan's head-quarters for the
winter, as General Washington is to reside at Philadelphia
until spring. Lord Stirling has declined going to the south-
ward, and it is imagined General Wayne Avill be appointed to
that command; and the troops destined for South Carolina are
the Yirgiuia and North Carolina men, with Baylor's light horse.
Colonel Dayton will relieve Colonel Seely at Elizabethtown in
a few days ; and Colonel Spencer takes post at Woodbridge ;
and General Washington's best train of artillery is at Sucesun-
ney, above Morristown. A number of the eastern men are to
be hiitted on the east side of the North Piver, xmder the com-
mand of General Gates.'

■ Gaine's Mercury, December G.

CnAPTEE YII.

Jaiojaet 1. — An American gentleman, now in London, ■who
is well acquainted with General "Washington, gives the follow-
ing account of him : — "That, though advanced in g^^^^,
years, he is remarkably healthy, takes a great deal ■w^'«'ii''ston-
of exercise, and is very fond of riding on a favorite white horse.
He is very reserved, and loves retirement ; when out of camp,
he has only a single servant attending him, and when he re-
turns within the lines, a few of the light horse escort him to
his tent. When he has any great object in view, he sends for a
few of those officers of whose abilities he has a high opinion,
and states his present plan among half a dozen others, to all
which they give their separate judgments ; by these means he
gets all their opinions, without divulging his intentions. He
has no tincture of pride, and will often converse with a senti-
nel with more freedom than he will with a general officer. He
is very shy and reserved to foreigners, although they have let-
ters of recommendation from the Congress. He punishes neg-
lect of duty with great severity, but is very tender and indul-
gent to recruits iimil they learn the articles of war and their
exercise perfectly. He has a great antipathy to spies, although
he employs them himself, and has an utter aversion to all Indi-
ans. He regularly attends divine service in his tent every
morning and evening, and seems very fervent in his prayers.
He is so tender-hearted that no soldier can be flogged nigh his
tent ; or, if he is walking in his camp and sees a man tied to
the halberds, he Avill either order him to be taken down, or
walk another way to avoid the sight. He has made the art of
war his particular study ; his plans are in general good and
well digested ; he is particularly careful always of securing a

250 DIAET OF THE EEVOLUTION. [1780.

retreat, but liis cliief qualifications are courage, steadiness,
perseverance, and secresy. Any act of bravery lie is sure to
reward, and make a short eulogium on the occasion to the
person and liis fellow-soldier (if it be a soldier) in the ranks.
He is humane to the prisoners who fall into his hands, and or-
ders every thing necessary for their relief. He is very temperate
in his diet, and the only luxury he indulges himself in, is a
few glasses of punch after supper." '

Thieteen is a niimber peculiarly belonging to the rebels.
A party of naval prisoners lately returned from Jersey, say, that
Thirteen n Rebel ^^^"^ rations among the rebels are thirteen dried

Number. elams pcr day ; that the titular Lord Stirling takes
thirteen glasses of grog every morning, has thirteen enormous
rum-bunches on his nose, and that (when duly impregnated) he
always makes thirteen attempts before he can walk ; that Mr.
Washington has thirteen toes on his feet, (the extra ones having
groM'n since the Declaration of Independence,) and the same
number of teeth in each jaw ; that the Sachem Schuyler has a
top-knot of thirteen stiff hairs, which erect themselves on the
crown of his head when he grows mad ; that Old Putnam had
thirteen pounds of his posteriors bit off in an encounter with
a Connecticut bear, ('twas then he lost the halance of his mind ;)
that it takes thirteen Congress paper dollars to equal one penny
sterling ; that Polly Wayne was just thirteen hours in subdu-
ing Stony Point, and as many seconds in leaving it ; that a
well-organized rebel household has thirteen children, all of
whom expect to be generals and members of the High and
Mighty Congress of the " thirteen United States " when they
attain thirteen years ; that Mrs. Washington has a mottled
tom-cat, (which she calls, in a complimentary way, 'Hamilton,')
with thirteen yellow rings around his tail, and that his flaunt-
ing it suggested to the Congress the adoption of the same
number of stripes for the rebel flag.'

Januaky 10. — ^The very remarkable and long-continued

' Kcw namiishirc Gazette, March 4. '' Smythc's Journal, OS.

1780.] STANZAS ON THE TKESENT WAE. 251

severity of tlie weather at ISTew York, (the like not having been
known, as vre are informed, by the oldest man living,) has
stopped all the avennes of intelligence, and almost _

^ '■ n /> 1 Cold Weather.

ent off all social intercourse between people oi the
same neighborhood. The incessant intenseness of the cold, the
great depth and quantity of the snows, following in quick suc-
cession one on the back of another, attended with violent tem-
pests of wind, which for several days made the roads utterly
impassable, has put a stop to business of all kinds, except such
as each family could do within itself. And as many were
slenderly provided with necessaries for subsistence, we have
reason to apprehend that we shall shortly hear many melan-
choly accounts of private distress in the country, and that from
the sea-coasts and vessels at sea, the accounts will be dreadful.*

STANZAS ON THE PRESENT 'WAE.

See France and Spain to battle dare ;
■ Britons, haste ! to arms repair.
Haste join tlie proffered fight !
Deeds of glory, feats of arms,
Death and danger, war's alarms.
Sons of Britain all invite.

Fame shall soon her trumpet sound,
And tell the nations all around

That Albion, though alone,
Will force the sl.ives of France and Spain,
And monarchs who'd manldnd enchain.

To bow to Freedom's throne.

Yes, Bourbon's King shall rue the hour
That dar'd provoke Old England's pow'r,

And raise the storm of war.
Our martial bands, in days of yore.
Who fought at Cressy, Agincourt,

Proclaim what Britons dare.^

January 16. — Eaelt yesterday morning about two thou-
sand American troops under the command of Major-Gcneral

' Pennsylvania Packet, January 27. Eivington's Gazette, January 5.

252 DLUir OF TiiE EEvoLrnoN. [1T80.

Lord Stirling, passed over the ice at De JIart's Point, in
Jersey, and landed at Staten Island, near IvTercerean's dock-
Lord stiriings yard. When they came to the Elazing Star road,
Staten isbni they divided into two columns, and one proceeded
by Dongan's mills, the other by the back road, towards the
watering place. Both columns gained the heights above the
enemy's Avorks about the same time. On the approach of the
Americans, the enemy abandoned the strong fortified house
called Decker's Fort, near which the Americans seized nine
sail of vessels, several of which were laden with wood. Tlic
enemy on all sides retu-ed to their works, which, in addition to
their usual defences, had an abattis of snow, near ten feet
high, all around them. After fully reconnoitring the situa-
tion of the enemy, and finding that nothing of advantage could
be done, the Americans began to retire about sunrise this
morning, and in their way destroyed the vessels and works at
Decker's house. Tlie enemy with horse and foot watched tlieir
motions, but could find no opportunity of attacking them with
advantage. Tlieir horse, indeed, made a charge on a covering
party under the command of Major Edwards, and killed'three
of his men ; but they were soon beat ofi" with a loss of a ser-
geant of dragoons and his horse. Tlie rebel army arrived in
the highest good order at De Hart's, by eleven o'clock this
morning, Avithout any loss except Avhat is before mentioned.
In the course of the excursion avc took tAvo sergeants and six
or eight privates, and several deserters came over to us.'

January 18. — Eaelt this morning, a detachment of rebel
militia, collected from the neighborhood of Ilorseneck, under
Skirmish in ^^^'^ command of a Captain LoclcAvood, attacked a
Eastchester, N. T. j^iqusc betwccn Kiug's Bridge and De Lancey's
Mills, in which Lieutenant-Colonel Iletfield, Major Ilugger-
ford. Captain Knap, a quarter-master and ten private refugees
of the lieutenant-colonel's corps, Avere quartered ; the house
being bravely defended for fifteen minutes, the rebels Avere
enabled to set fire to it, from then' having gained possession of

' Kew Jersey Journal, January 18.

17S0.] B^VLL AT ^"EW VOIIK. 253

the groimd floor ; in consequence of wliicli, this small party
^vere reduced to the necessity of abandoning their post, and
laying down their arms ; they were, of course, taken prisoners,
and the enemy immediately began their retreat.

Major Huggerford soon after effected his escape, and return-
ing, formed a small body of refugees, consisting of thirty-five
dragoons and twenty-eight infantry, under the command of
Captain Purdy, instantly pursuing the rebels with this detach-
ment. Tlie infantry took post upon the heights beyond East-
chester, and the mounted, consisting of Cornet Ililat, Adju-
tant Pugsley, two sergeants, and twenty-nine privates, under
the command of Lieutenant Kipp, continued the piu-suit, and
came up with their rear between New Eochelle and Mamaro-
neck, and resolutely closing with them, killed twenty-three,
and took forty prisoners, some of whom are Avounded.

Too much praise cannot be given to this handful of brave
men, who have set so bright an example to their injured coun-
trymen, and their behavior upon this occasion has gained just
and universal applause. The only weapon used by Major
Huggerford and his determined band of refugees in their at-
tack and defeat of Captain Lockwood's party, was the sabre,
and had not their horses been jaded to a stand still, every one
of tlic enemy would have fallen into their hands.'

Jaxuaev lO. — Yesteeday, the anniversary of her Majesty's
birtliday was celebrated at Xew York with uncommon splen-
dor and magnificence. At noon, a royal salute- uirthdar Baii
was fired from Fort George, and repeated by his '"^''"' ^'*'''-
Majesty's ships-of-war at one o'clock. Tlie public rooms were,
on this occasion, entirely new painted and decorated in a style
wliich reflects honor on the taste of the managers. A Doric
pediment was erected over the principal entrance, enclosing a
transparent painting of their Majesties, at full length, in their
royal robes, over Avhich was an emblematical piece, encircled
with the motto of " Beitons Strike Home " — the whole illu-
minated with a beautiful variety of diflercnt colored lamps.

' Rivington's Gazette, January 22.

254 DIAEY OF THE EEVOLUTION. [17S0.

In tlie evening, a most splendid ball was given by the general,
field, and stafi-officers of the army, to the garrison and prin-
cipal ladies and gentlemen of the city. The ball was opened
at eight o'clock by the Baroness de Riedesel and Major-Gen-
eral Pattison, commandant of the city and garrison. Country
dances commenced at half-past nine, and at twelve the com-
pany adjourned to supper, prepared in the two long rooms.
The tables exhibited a most delightful appearance, being or-
namented with parterres and arbors, displaying an elegant
assemblage of natural and artificial fiowers, china images, &c.
The company retired about three o'clock this morning, highly
satisfied with the evening's entertainment, which abounded
with so many scenes equally new and agreeable.'

Januaet 22. — A WEiTEE in the American camp at Basken-
ridge, in New Jersey, in a letter of this date, says : — '' We
Famine in the ^^^^'^^ ^^^^ ^ ^^st lately in camp, by general con-
American Camp, gtj-aint, of the wholc army, in which we fasted
more sincerely and truly for three days than ever we did from
all the resolutions of Congress piit together. Tliis was occa-
sioned by the severity of the weather, and drifting of the snow,
whereby the roads were rendered impassable, and all supplies
of provisions cut off, until the ofiicers were obliged to release
the soldiers from command, and permit them to go in great
numbers together into the country to get provision where they
could find it.

"The inhabitants of tliis part of the country discovered a
noble spirit in feeding the soldiers ; and to the honor of the sol-
diery, t/u'i/ received what they yot with thanJcfulness, and did
little or no damage. As soon as the roads were broken, and
the brave fellows got their lellies fuU, they went, with amaz-
ing alacrity, on the Statcn Island expedition ; but the British
getting intelligence, our people, after reconnoitring their
strength, returned not a little disai^jyoiiited. They did little
more than burn a large fortified house and five small vessels,
after stripping them of every thing valuable."' '

Kivington's Gazctlo, January 19. ^ Maryland Journal, February 8.

1780.] VAN BUSKIEk's visit to JERSEY. 255

January 27. — Last Tuesday niglit, a party of tlio enemy,
consisting of about tlirco hundred infantry, under tlio command
of Colonel Van Buskii-k, of the new levies, and Y„nEuEkirk-3
about sixty dragoons, said to be under the com- ^"" '" J"'s«y-
mand of Captain Steward, of the seventeenth light dragoons,
with several refugees — ^the whole in number nearly four hun-
dred— crossed on the ice from Staten Island toTrembly's Point,
about three miles from Elizabeth town. From thence they
were conducted by Cornelius Iletiield, Job Hetfield, and Smith
Hetfield, their principal guides, by the nearest and most re-
tired route into Elizabethtown. Tliey entered the town in two
divisions, before the alarm was sounded. As soon as the
troops that were in the town (consisting of about sixty men)
perceived their danger, they retreated ; however, they took
a major who was commandant of the place, two or three
captains that lodged in the town that night, and a few troops.
Tliey then set fire to the Presbyterian meeting and court house,
which were consumed ; plundered, insulted, and took off some
of the inhabitants, and retreated, with great precipitation, by
the way of De Hart's Point, whose house they likewise burned.

The same night another party of the enemy, consisting of
drafts from the difl['erent regiments stationed in l\ew York,
passed. over the jSTorth River in sleighs, to Powle'sIIook ; from
thence through Bergen, the nearest way to Xewark. Tliey
entered the town in three divisions, and proceeded to the
academy, where they surprised and took about fifteen men,
being all the troops that were on duty in the town — a lieuten-
ant, notwithstanding he was twice a prisoner with the enemy,
by his vigilance, effected his escape. They then set fire to
the academy, which they consumed, during which time a par-
ty was detached to several of the inhabitants' houses, which
tliey rifled of the most valuable efiects ; that Avhich was not
portable they destroyed. They took oflf Justice Hedden and
Robert ISTeil, Jun., two of the inhabitants. The former gen-
tleman was taken out of his bed, and without any of his clothes
on except his shirt and a pair of stockings, carried off, not-
withstanding the strongest solicitations of Mrs. Ileddcn to the
oflieers, for permission for her husband to dress himself. She

256 DIAEY OF TIIE EEVOLUTION. [1780.

received t'wo ■wounds with abajonet, one in tlie face, the other
in the breast.

They continued in town about fifteen or eighteen minutes.
A few militia being liastily collected, pursued their rear, by
which means five of the enemy fell into their hands. Two
of them died a short time after from the intense cold. Justice
Iledden is so frost-bitten, that it is thought he will lose both
his legs.'

A correspondent of Eivington's thus refers to this affair : — •

" Seeing in your last "Wednesday's Gazette an extract taken

from a rebel paper of the second instant, giving an

Justice Uedden. „ , i . , -, . . -r ■ -r^ ,

account oi the takmg and brnignig J ustice Iled-
den and Hobert JSTeil prisoners from Newark to this city,' treat-
ing ITr. Iledden with great cruelty, and reflecting on the
officer who commanded that party, you may inform the public
that the apprehending of Justice Iledden was no part of the
oljject of the King's officers ; but that one Walker, a volunteer
■\\'itli them, who with many others had been most inhiimanly
and barbarously treated by Justice ITedden, went with a few
of the privates to his house and took him, without waiting-
long for him to put on his clothes, Avhicli he intentionally de-
layed ; when the officers perceived, on their march, his want of
more clothing, they provided him with some.

" If Mrs. Iledden was wounded, it is what she merited, by
her assaulting and opposing all in her power, the carrying
away her husband. There was no intent to liiirt Mrs. Iledden,
but to make her desist in her violence ; if any harm hapi:)ened
to her, she must blame her own fury. Mr. Iledden and his
friends may, if they have any sense of justice remaining, find
that justice hath in part overtaken him, when they reflect on
the acts of barbarity he has frequently committed on many of
his Majesty's loyal subjects for not perjuring themselves in
abjuring their lawful sovereign, and swearing allegiance to the
Congress, and to the State of New Jersey. Among many of
his persecutions were imprisonments, reducing others to bread
and water only, stripping many women and children of their

' New Jersey Journal, Fc)>ruary 2. ' New York. ■

1Y80.] JUSTICE IIEDDEN. 257

clotliing, beds, and household furniture, and then banishing
them without the necessaries of life, and seizing and selling
the estates of a great number of his Majesty's subjects, to his
no small emolument.

" Eobert ITeil is also notorious in his way. A bankrupt four
years past, since acting under the pretence of a sub-deputy
quarter-master to the rebel army, made it his constant practice
to take and dispose of, on his own account, to the Continental
troops, the wheat, corn, and other grain, and also the firewood
he cut from many valuable lots of land, belonging to those
he pleased to call Tories and enemies to the State of New Jer-
sey, whereby both Hedden and Neil have amassed large estates
with the properties of others. Common justice, it is hoped, will
prevent their discharge, till they have made full satisfaction to
his Majesty's faithful subjects for the injuries they have done
them." '

Febeuaet 1. — ^The sound, between Long Island and Con-
necticut, is almost frozen over in the widest parts ; and some
persons have passed over from Long Island to j^^^^^ j^,^j^^ g^^^
NorwaUc and other parts in Connecticut on the Frozen,
ice. "Wood is broiight from Long Island to New York on
sleighs. It is almost passable from Powle's Hook to New York.'

Last Sunday evening a party consisting of thirteen mounted
refugees went from Staten Island, and in the vicinity of Eliza-
bethtown, New Jersey, surprised Mr. "Wynantz, ■^^_,^^ -n-ynantz
a lieutenant of the rebel militia, and eight private ^^"^ i'"^''"'^''.
men of Colonel Jacques' regiment. Few republicans on this
continent are more remarkable for their implacable opposition
to his Majesty's government than some of these prisoners ; they
were all the same evening seciirely lodged on Staten Island.
Tliey were found at a fandango, or merry-making, with a
party of lasses, who became planet struck at the sudden sep-
aration from their Damons. The further trophies of this suc-
cessful excursion are three handsome sleighs, with ten good

Rivington's Gazette, February 16. ' New Hampshire Gazette, March 4.
A'oL. II.— IT

258 DIAEY OF THE EEVOLUTION. [17SD.

liorsGS, all of wliicli vreve yesterday driven to New York over
the ice from Staten Island, an enterprise never yet attempted
since the first settlement of this coimtry.'

A GENTLEMAN from Ncw Tork has favored us with a speech
of Sir William Erskine. He, Sir William, riding by a house on
Anecdote of Sir ^^wg Island, heard a great racket made by some
William Erskine. goidigi-s ; \^q stoppcd and crfed out, " Who com-
mands here ? " A soldier answered, " The Devil ! " " A much
better commander, I think," said Sir William, " than Sir Henry
Clinton." '

Februaet 8. — Last Saturday morning died in St. James'
Square, Bristol, England, in the seventy-ninth year of his age,
Henry cruger Hcmy Cruger, Esq. Having been some years in
'°'"'^- a very ill state of health, he left New York, the
place of his nativity and residence in America, where he had
sustained a most respectable private character, and filled the
varioi;s offices of member of the assembly and member of the
council, with the highest reputation. Tlie cheerfulness of his
disposition, and the affability of his manners, endeared him to
all those who had the pleasure of his acquaintance. As his
disorder was of a singular nature, (which occasioned his visiting
England by the advice of his physician,) his body was opened
agreeable to his frequent directions, dictated by the benevo-
lent motive of promoting the good of mankind. His remains
were interred in the cathedral at Eristol.^

Febeuaet 15. — ^The following sketch of the present situation

of affairs in Charleston, South Carolina, is communicated by

Affairs in Coloucl Johu Laurens : — " Tlio British army, said

Charleston, s. c. ^q ■\^q midcr the command of Sir Henry Clinton,* are

distributed on PortKoyal Island, John's Island, Stono Ferry, and

' Gaino's Mercury, February V. ' New Hampshire Gazette, February 5.

' Eivington's Gazette, June 14.

* General Clinton sailed from New York on the 26th of December, 1779, and
after a very tempestuoua voyage, in which many of his ships were disabled, and
most of his cavalry horses lost, ho landed on John's Island on the 13th of February.

Jtw^^

'^l0s^J^

■-.'■>''

PLAIV

oIllKuSIEGt: oi'

ClLU^LESTON

SOVTH CWJfOlJXA

258 DIAEY OF THE EEVOLUTION. [1780.

horses, all of -n-liicli ^vcre j'csterday driven to New York over
the ice from Statcn Idand, an enterprise never yet attempted
since the first settlement of this comitry.'

A GENTLEMAN froni New Tork has favored its with a speech
of Sir "William Erskine. He, Sir "William, ridmg by a honsc on
Anecdote of Sir ^ong Island, heard a great racket made hy some
wiumm Erskine. goMiers ; hc stoppcd and crfed out, ""Who com-
mands here ? " A soldier answered, " The Devil ! " " A much
better commander, I think," said Sir "William, "than Sir Henry
Clinton." "

Febeuaet S. — Last Saturday morning died in St. James'
Square, Bristol, England, in the seventy-ninth year of his age,
Henry Crnger Hcury Crugcr, Esq. Having been some years in
"'''^- a very ill state of health, he left New York, the
place of his nativity and residence in America, where he had
sustained a most respectable private character, and filled the
various offices of member of the assembly and member of the
council, with the highest reputation. Tlie cheerfulness of his
disposition, and the affability of his manners, endeared him to
all those who had the pleasure of his acquaintance. As his
disorder was of a singular nature, (which occasioned his visiting
England by the advice of his physician,) his body was opened
agreeable to his frequent directions, dictated by the benevo-
lent motive of promoting the good of mankind. His remains
were interred in the cathedral at Bristol."

Febeuaet 15. — ^The following sketch of the present situation

of affairs in Cliarleston, South Carolina, is communicated by

Affairs in Colonel Jolm Laurens : — "Tlie British army, said

Charleston, s. c. ^q j^g under the connnand of Sir Henry Clinton,* are

distributed on PortEoyal Island, John's Island, Stono Ferry, and

' Gainc's Mercury, February T. ' New Hampshire Gazette, February 5.

' Eivington's Gazette, June 14.

'' General Clinton sailed from New York on the 26th of December, 1779, and
after a very tempestuous Toyage, in which many of his ships were disabled, and
most of his cavalry horses lost, he landed on John's Island on the 13th of February.

L „

/

;; 1/ // s/f>\ ii\i 1 01 It

\

/,' / 1 / /'

FT V\

(11 U?Ll<:.sT()N

SOI /// ( Wi Ol l\ \

1780.] AFFAIKS IN CHAELESTOX. 259

a detacliment last night landed upon James' Island. The
head-quarters are at Fenwick's house, on John's Island. Four
of their galleys have been seen between John and James' Isl-
and. Tlie number of troops not known, supposed to be much
diminished since the embarkation at New York. About twelve
deserters from the fleet and anny have come into Charleston,
and as many prisoners are taken by our light horse. Different
deserters from the fleet and army agree m reporting very heavy
losses at sea. Tliree ships foundered, many dismasted, one
brig, two ships are taken, and brought into Charleston ; a
brig is carried into North Carolina. One of the deserters in-
forms, that thirteen sail were left on the rocks of Bermuda.
There is undoubtedly some grand impediment to the enemy's
progress. All their horses perished at sea, and much of their
furniture was captured. Three days ago, passed by Charles-
ton bar, in a hard gale of wind, a sixty-four gun ship, a frigate,
and some transports. Tliese may be gone to New York for
further supplies ; biit all is conjecture. Near the bar of Charles-
ton daily appears a frigate and other ships of war, reconnoi-
tring and blocking up the harbor. "We have four Continental
frigates, two French armed ships, two State armed ships, six
other armed vessels, some of them carrying very heavy can-
non. The enemy's delay has afforded an opportunity for
strengthening the lines of Charleston, which wiU be in pretty
good order to-morrow. The numher of men within the lines
uncertain J 'but hy far too fe^o for defending worTcs of near
three miles in cirmimference, especially considering many of
them to ie citizens, and unaccustomed to the fatigues of a he-
sieged garrison, and many of the Continental troops half
naked.

Eeinforcements are expected — General Ilogan is within a
few miles. The Yirgi7iia troops are someichere ! — assistance
from that sister State has heen expected these eighteen months.
General Moultrie is forming a camp at Bacon Bridge, where
he has about five hundred horse belonging to South Carolina —
Baylor's and Bland's regiments of Virginia. General "William-
son is encamped at Augusta — a thousand men are expected
from his brigade. General Eichardson and Colonel Carlen

260 DIAET OF THE EEVOLUTIOX. [1780.

are raising the militia at and about Camden. At tliis moment
the escape of the Americans depends on further delay on the
enemy's part : two or three weeks more will make this gan-ison
strong. The inhabitants in general are in good spirits ; com-
petent judges say that Sir Henry Clinton will then have cause
to repent his enterprise. This aifords encouragement, but
events in war are uncertain ; and if we do not receive assist-
ance, the next intelligence may be quite contrary.'

Maech 5. — ^Tms day was hanged at Charleston, Soiith
Carolina, Colonel Hamilton Ballendine, for making drafts of
the town and fortiiications. He was taken by a picket guard
CoioDei Ballendine """^li^^^i General Lmcoln had sent out to Stono, as
Hanged. ]^g ^^g making his way to the enemy ; and when
ho was hailed by the guard, his answer was, " Colonel Ham-
ilton Ballendine." The guard told him that would not do, and
carried him to the commander of the picket ; iipon which he
pulled out of his pockets the drafts. The officer told him
he was mistaken, and had him carried to General Lincoln,
who ordered him for execution."

Maech 12. — ^Theee is nothing more ridiculous than the idle
stories which are daily told of omens and forebodings on every
trifling occasion ; but, upon great occasions, all
ages have afforded such proofs of something of
this kind, that the most learned and candid have been obliged
to take notice of them. How far the folloM'ing may be con-
sidered of this kind, every one will judge for himself. Of the
truth of each there is incontestable evidence :

In the ceremony of coronation in England, there are two
swords used : one representing justice, the other represent-
ing mercy. At the coronation of Geoi'ge the Third, the sword
of justice was brought, but the sword of mercy was left at the
tower. To liave sent for it would have delayed time; and
therefore the Lord Mayor of London's sword was borrowed,
and iised in its stead. At the same time the great diamond

' Maryland Journal, March 21.

' Virginia Gazette, April 8; and Pennsylvania Packet, April 18.

1780.] LORD EAWDOn's KE6IMENT. 261

fell from his sceptre. Wlien the same King reviewed his fleet,
under Keppel, in May, 1778, the weather was so fine that hun-
dreds of small boats were on the sea ; and yet, so it was, that
at the mast-head of the royal yacht, on board which the King
then was, the great union flag was rent from top to bottom, in
the sight of twenty thousand people. A pious lady of New
York, having some years ago been to see the waxworks shown
there, among which was the likeness of George the Third, she
dreamed the night following that she saw that King in his
great chair fast asleep, and his crown lying at his feet. Be-
yond him stood the devil, and after some time he cried out
with a strong and terrifying voice, " Arouse, O Prince, for thy
kingdom is departed from thee." Tliis dream was written and
sent to Mrs. "Wright, then in London, with a strong injunction
to show it to the King. It was accordingly handed to Lord
North, but he did not dare to show it to his master.'

Maech 17. — A MUNIFICENT entertainment was given by Lord
Eawdon, colonel of the Yolunteers of L'eland, to his regiment,
quartered at Jamaica, Long Island, in honor of 1,0^4 Eawdon's
St. Patrick, tutelar saint of tliat kingdom. The Eegiment.
following song was sung by Barney Thompson, piper to the
regiment ; tune Langolee :

Success to the Shamrock, and all those who wear it,

Be honor their portion wherever they go :
May riches attend them, and stores of good claret,

For how to employ them sure none better know.
Every foe surveys them with terror,
But every silk petticoat wishes them nearer ;
So Yankee keep off, or you'll soon learn your error,

For Paddy shall prostrate lay every foe.

This day, but the year I can't rightly determine,
St. Patrick the vipeis did chase from the land ;

Let's see, if like him, we can't sweep off the vermin
Who dare 'gainst the sons of the shamrock to stand.

Hand in hand ! let's carol the chorus —

As long as the blessings of Ireland hang o'er us,

The crest of Rebellion shall tremble before us,
Like brothers, while thus we march hand in hand.

' Pennsylvania Packet, March 16.

262 DIAEY OF THE EEVOLriTOX. [1780.

St. George, and St. Patrick, St. Andrew, St. David,

Together may laugli at all Europe in arms.
Fair conquest her standard has o'er their heads waved,

And glory has on them conferr'd all the charms.
War's alarms ! to us are a pleasure.
Since honor our danger repays iu full measure,
And all those who join us shall find we have leisure

To think of our sport even in war's alarms."

Mauch 24. — Day before yesterday, two detachments of the
British army Avere passed over the Hudson Kiver into Jersey —
Descent on ^^'^ from King's Bridge, consisting of tliree hnn-
Paramus, N. J. (jj.gjj mp^ from tlie brigade of guards, nnder tlie
command of Lientenant-Colonel Howard, the other from N"ew
York, of equal force, composed of the British and German
troops in garrison, under tlie command of Lieutenant-Colonel
Macpherson, of the forty-second regiment. Lieutenant-Colonel
Howard's detachment landed at Kloster, several miles above
Fort Lee — the troops from the city at Weehawk, (Weehawken.)
The former were to ]3enetrate into the country to the north-
ward of Hopperstown, and destined to attack the rear of the
rebel cantonments at that place ; the latter (taking their route
by the Little Ferry upon the Hackensack, where boats were
sent to transport them across) were to have surprised the town
of Hackensack, in which a company of militia were quartered,
and, pushing forwards, to have fallen upon the front of the
Paramus cantonments. Tliese services were not effected, owing
to unavoidable delays, till several hours later than was intended.
Lieutenant-Colonel Howard arrived near Hopperstown two
liours after daybreak yesterday morning, and continuing liis
march, surprised two pickets, and pressed one of their can-
tonments so closely as to oblige the officer and his command
to leave their arms behind them, which, to the amount of
about thirty stand, were destroyed. Their main body, consist-
ing of between two and three hundred men, made a show of
defence at the church ; but, finding they would be instantly
attacked, they retired Avitli precipitation — were pursued for
aboiat a mile, and several prisoners taken. Lieutenant-Colonel

' Riviugton's Gazette, March 18.

17S0.] ST. PATEICk's DAT. 263

Macplierson's detacliment, at this time on its march tliroiigli
the cantonments, which were found abandoned, made its ap-
pearance upon the road near the chnrch, having taken a few
prisoners.

Every further attempt to come up Avith the enemy being
impracticable, both detachments returned to Zabriskie's Mills,
where, being joined by the party left at Hackensack, which had
taken several prisoners, the troops retired by ]S"ew Bridge, and
the English K'eighborhood ; Lieutenant-Colonel Macpherson's,
A^dth the pi'isoners, continuing their march to Weehawk, where
boats were waiting to receive them.

One man of the British was killed. Captain Ansthruther
of the forty-second regiment, and a few men were wounded
upon the inarch towards the English ^Neighborhood, the rebels,
in loose parties, keeping up an irregular fire upon the rear, and
some men dropped behind from fatigue. In the course of the
marcli, a clergyman, with another iuoifensive inhabitant, (taken
prisoner by mistake,) were dismissed, and are reported to have
been accidentally shot by the rebels. Sixty-four prisoners
were brought from Jersey ; of these twenty-four belonged to
the Continental troops, and a captain and twenty-three were
militia-men. Thirteen deserters, also, who were a part of the
Paramus command, came oif with their arms. Tlie loss of the
rebels in killed and wounded cannot be ascertained.'

Apeil 6. — AuroTfo the little army of rebels at MoiTistown,
none are so impatient under the abuse of being forcibly de-
tained after the expiration of the terms of their -ty^asii^^ton and
enlistment, as the sons of St. Patrick who have ^'- P'"^'*'^ Day.
been seduced into the service of the Congress. Lately they
had resolved to do themselves justice, and go off in a body,
and publicly announced that nothing should prevent it on the
ensuing annivex-sary of the seventeenth of March. It was a
day of apprehension to some who looked for bloodshed and
murder, but American policy outwitted Irish good-humor.

Washington, on the day before the feast, gave out an order

' Game's Mercury, April 3.

2GJ: DIAET OF THE EEVOLUTION. [1780.

for honoring the saint, and, for the gratification of his vota-
ries, ■with a dispensation from labor ; and the next morning
was nshered in with mnsic and the hoisting of colors, exhibit-
ing the thirteen stripes, the favorite harp, and an inscription
declaring in capitals. The iNDErENCENCE of Ieeland. To ex-
plain the whole, amuse the discontented, and while away the
day. Governor Li\-ingston's Mercuries reported that seventy
thoiisand men in arms, nnder the Duke of Leinstcr and Lord
Shannon, were scattered through the camp. The simple-
hearted Teagues, charmed with the sight of the harp, forgot
their sufferings, dropped their complaints, and seemed perfectly
happy for the moment, though not a drop of whiskey or taifie
was to be seen in the camp, unless in the tents of the contrivers
of this dry and unusual way of celebrating the tutelar divinity
of England's fair and jolly sister, the Kingdom of Ireland.

Tliis is the account of the deserters, and it is in some meas-
ure confirmed by the following genuine composition, taken
from a Philadelphia paper of the thirtieth of March. Surely
no man will refuse Mr. "Washington the merit due to liis piety,
ingenuity, and valor. It may not, however, be advisable for
him in future ever to be present without all his Yankee life-
guards at an L-ish wedding :

" Tlie following general orders lately issued by our illustri-
ous general, the commander-in-chief of the American amiy,
we hope will be acceptable to all our readers, and in particular
to the patriotic and joyous sons of Saint Patrick :

"General Okdees. — Tlie general congratulates the army
on the very interesting proceedings of the Parliament of L"e-
land, and of the inhabitants of that country, which have been
lately communicated, not only as they ajjpear calculated to re-
move those heavy and tyrannical ojjpressions on their trade, but
to restore to a brave and generous people their ancient rights
and freedom, and, by their operation, promote the cause of
America. Desirous of impressing on the minds of the anny
transactions so important in their nature, the general directs
that all fatigue and working parties cease for to-morrow, the
seventeenth instant, a day held in particular regai-d by the
people of that nation. At the same time he orders this as a

1780.] ATTACK ON MAJOE BOYLES. 265

mark of the great pleasure -which he feels on the occasion, he
persuades himself that the celebration of the day will be at-
tended with the least rioting or disorder." '

Apeil 17. — ^Testeedat morning, a detachment of two hun-
dred Continental troops, under the command of Major Boyles,
of the Pennsylvania line, stationed at Paramus, ^^^^^■^^ „^
in Jersey, was suddenly attacked by a party of Major Eoyies.
the enemy, consisting of about two hundred horse, and foiu'
hundred foot. Tlie attack commenced a little after sunrise.
Major Boyles, besides his usual patroles, had that morning sent
out two parties, each with a commissioned officer ; but such
is the situation of that part of the country, intersected with
roads, and inhabited chiefly by disaffected people, that all pre-
cautions failed. His parties and patroles were eluded, and the
sentinels near his quarters were the first that gave notice of
the enemy's approach. He had just before paraded and dis-
missed his men. The advance of the horse was so rapid, that
no time was left to reassemble them. Tlie major had no re-
source but the defence of the house he was in ; this, there-
fore, with only a small quarter-guard, he resolved to attempt,
though from the smallness of his force, and its entire dispro-
portion to the place he was defending, he could have no pros-
pect of success ; but chose rather to fall in a brave, though
hopeless resistance, than to save himself by a dishonorable
surrender. He immediately made the best disposition the
hurry of the moment would permit, and animated his men by
his exhortation and example. A brisk fire ensued on both
sides ; the house was soon surroimded on every part, and no
effort of the little party seemed caj^able of hindering the ene-
my from forcing their way. Some of the men, intimidated by
so threatening a scene, began to cry for quarter ; others, obey-
ing the commands of their officers, continued to fire from the
windows. The enemy without, upbraided them with the per-
fidy of asking quarter and persisting in resistance, desiring
them to come out and they would quarter them. Major Boyles,

' Gaine's Mercury, April 24.

266 DIABT OF THE EEVOLTJTION. [1780.

exclaiming in a determined tone, denied his haying called for
quarter ; but his resolution could not avail, a surrender took
place, and, in the act, the major received a mortal wound in
the left breast, with Avhich he expired, a victim to his gallantry
and refined sense of duty. So distinguished and en\-iable a
fall must endear his memory to his fellow-soldiers and fellow-
citizens. Lieiitenants Glentworth and Sherman had thrown
themselves into the major's quarters, and assisted in the de-
fence. They displayed great activity and bravery. The latter
was wounded.

Such part of the detachment as could be collected together,
aided by a few spirited militia, hung close upon the rear of the
enemy during their retreat, and harassed them with a con-
tinual fire, re-taking four wagons with phmder, and nineteen
horses. Lieutenant Bryson, being a few days before detached
by Major Boyles with a small party to the N^ew Bridge, de-
fended that post for some time with great gallantry and cool-
ness, he sustaining in person, with his espontoon, the attack of
four horsemen, and receiving several wounds ; but, being over-
powered with numbers, he surrendered to one of their officers.
It is said he received marks of politeness from them, on ac-
count of the great bravery and deliberate courage disi^layed
by him during the skirmish.

Tlie enemy, agreeable to their usual mode of procedure,
plundered and burnt the house and mill of Mr. John Hoj^por,
and that of his brothers. In the former the family of Mr.
Abraham Brasher lived, who, with the rest, were left almost
destitute of a second change of clothes. The commanding
officer, being requested by Mrs. Brasher on her knees to spare
the house, damned her, and bid her be gone, declaring they all
deserved to be bayoneted. Tliey made their boasts, tliat as
Major Boyles did not present the hilt of his sword in front,
when surrendering, they shot him. Tlius died tliis brave and
gallant ofiicer, a victim to their savage cruelty. The loss of
the Americans killed, woimded, and taken, was one major,
two captains, four lieutenants, and about forty rank and file.
Tliat of the enemy, by their own acknowledgment, near as many.'

' Pennsylvaiiia Packet, May 23.

1780.] DON JUAN DE MIEKALLES. 26T

Mat 1. — ^It is reported from Jersey, tliat the minute gims
heard last Friday afteriioou in the direction of Morristown
were in honor of Monsieur Luzerne, the person Rivington-s
•who succeeded Gerard, and passing under the ap- Eumors.
pellation of the French Amhassador, and that he died suddenly
at the rebel camp in the mountains by the hand of violence ;
others say that the explosions were at the interment of another
adventurer called the Spanish Amhassador. "What seems to
be certain is this — that Luzerne had rendered himself obnox-
ious to the cits of Philadelphia, by an incautious dose of
French politics, in advice to the Congress on the means of thick-
ening the lean ranks of the rebel army — " Press your people
hard with taxes : the more heggars, the more soldiers ; " that the
populace threatened to lay hands upon him, and that it was
thought advisable for son Excellence to quit the town, till the
Congress could find means to pacify the unruly multitude ;
that on this he applied to the army for protection, and was
lately escorted by Mr. Washington on a secret visit to Eliza-
bethtown, for a peep at Staten Island. It is added that there
has been a great waste of white and black powder at Morris-
town, towards recovering the credit of the ambassador. Fifty
females, 'tis said, were picked up for a dance, and 'tis supposed
his departure will scarce leave a gill of taffie in the whole
camp of the pious friends of St. Patrick, whose general orders
of the sixteenth of March last," wiU certainly never be forgot-
ten by the true friends of Ireland.^

Friday last, died at Morristown, in New Jersey, Don Juan
de Mirralles, a Sjaanish gentleman of distinction. His corpse is
to be removed to Philadelphia, where it is to be interred with
those marks of respect which are due to gentlemen of his dig-
nified rank and fortune."

May 4. — This day, was celebrated at Philadelphia, the
funeral of the Spanish resident, who lately died at Morristown.

" See General Orders, April 6, ante. '^ Kivington's Gazette, May

° New Jersey Gazette, May 3.

268 DIAEY OF THE REVOLUTION. [1780.

The following was the order of the procession : — ^The bier,
covered with black cloth ; Monsieur Luzerne, the French res-
Mirraiies- Funemi "^"^^^ ; the CongrGss ; the general officers ; the
at Phiiiideiphia. citizens. When the procession arrived at the Eo-
man Catholic Chapel, the priest presented the holy water to
Monsieur Luzerne, who, after sprinkling himself, presented it
to Mr. Huntington, President of the Congress. The Calvinist
paused a considerable time, (near a minute,) but at length his
affection for the great and good allj conquered all scruples of
conscience, and he too besprinkled and sanctified himself with
all the adroitness of a veteran Catholic ; which his brethren
of the Congress perceiving, they all, without hesitation, fol-
lowed the righteous example of their proselyted president.
Before the company, which were extremely numerous, left the
chapel, curiosity induced some persons to \mcover the bier,
when they were highly enraged at finding the whole a sham,
tliere being no corpse under the cloth, the body of the Spanish
gentleman having been several days before interred at Morris-
town. The bier was surrounded with wax candles, and every
member of the egregious Congress, now reconciled to the
Popish communion, carried a taper in his hand.'

May 8. — ^This year's campaign seems to be fraught with
interesting events. "When we look to Europe, we there behold
state of Forei"!! ^^"^ Contending parties becoming more and more
Affairs. serioiis in their determinations : formidable prep-
arations are making, equally so by Britain as well as all the
other belligerent powers. When we turn our eyes to the
"West India Islands, we there see the same dexterous game
playing. Again, when we look to Gibraltar, we find that
Britain intends to use her most strenuous efforts in keejiing
possession of tliat very important fortress ; and, on the other
hand, Spain seems to be determined to reduce it imder her do-
minions. The United Provinces, during the contest, have all
along signified their neutrality, thereby tacitly manifesting a
friendly disposition to the United States. On viewing the

' Kivington's Gazette, May 20.

1780.] SIEGE OF CHAELESTON. 269

obligations tliey are under to the English nation, and tlie terms
of the treaty entered into at the last peace, the inference is
plain that they do not mean to take an active part in favor of
Britain, else they would have done it before this time. Tlie
taking of sundry Dutch vessels by the Enghsh, of late, will, it
is thought, pave the way to some happy overture. The capital
power of Kussia (notwithstanding the boasts of Britain that
she would at first asking lend her assistance to crush the re-
bellious Americans) conducts in a manner highly foreboding
a desire that America may be rendered free and independent.
Nay, it is so manifestly the interest of all the European powers
to have such an event take place, that we may justly unite and
say (as Lord North weepingly confessed in the House of Com-
mons) Britain is left without an ally. "We have looked to Eu-
rope and find the prospect beautiful ; let us turn and view the
prospect at home : strange to tell ! instead of a uniformity,
we find the contrary. Nearly all in sentiment appear friendly,
but in practice are inimical ; yet, although some part of our
conduct militates against the cairse, so long as there remains a
determination to maintain om'selves inviolate from British invad-
ers, we will not view our situation as desperate. The Caroli-
nas, it seems probable, will be the seat of war on the continent
this summer. Perhaps the enemy may think it will deserve
the name of an important achievement by sallying out in par-
ties upon our defenceless towns on the seacoast ; bixt it would
be well for them to remember it is possible that the expense
will more than compensate for the advantage that they may
think to gain thereby.'

Mat 12. — Tras morning the garrison of Charleston, after
sustainmg a siege of over a month's duration, surrendered pris-
oners of war to the combined fleet and army of ,j,^^ gj^.^^ ^^
Great Britain. The following is a journal of the ci«"-i'2s°toa.
siege, from the day previous to the British fleet's crossing the
bar, to the present hour : — " March 19. — ^The British, under
General Clinton, now encamped on James Island, seem to wait

' New Jersey Journal, May 24.

270 DIAET OF TUE EEVOLrTION. [1780.

for the shipping which lay off the bar, and have been disap-
pointed at the last springs by sonth-west winds, which kept
down the tides so that they cannot get over. Tliis day the
springs are at the highest, but the weatlier so hazy that they
will scarcely attempt it, and it will probably clear up with un-
favorable winds. "\Ve begin to hope that Providence has in-
terposed a second time to prevent their getting over until we
are ready. If they should get over either now or hereafter,
there will probably be the hottest contest that has happened
this war, just oif Fort Moultrie. Tlie British ships destined to
come in are said to be the Eenown, fifty guns ; Eoebuck,
forty-foiir ; Blond, thirty-two ; Perseus, twenty, and Camilla,
twenty. Tliese, and some say another frigate Avith some gal-
leys, are to force their way past the town, and ciit off the com-
munication between Charleston and the country. To oppose
their passing the fort, the Americans have thrown a boom of
cables across the channel at the fort, and stationed the Prov-
idence, of thirty-two guns ; Boston, twenty-eight ; Bricole,
twenty-eight ; Adventure, twenty ; French vessel, twenty ;
Queen of France, eighteen ; Truite, twenty, and three galleys,
(seven guns ;) so that either the fort or they must rake the ene-
my as they pass, and with the boom they hope to detain them
so long as to do it effectually.

" As the enemy's chance of success depends entirely on get-
ting up their shipping, and the American hopes of defending
the town greatly depend on preventing it, they seem deter-
mined to sell the passage immensely high. The commodore,
in sailor language, swears if he cannot defeat them he will run
both them and himself ashore, and all shall perish together ;
and every officer in the navy is ready to second his resolution.
Colonel Laurens commands the marines on board the Provi-

" March 20. — ^This morning the British got their ships over
the bar. Tliey consist of ten vessels of force, from twenty
British Shirs Cross S""*' *« ^ sixty-four, as some say, others a fifty.
Charleston Bar. jio-^yeyej.^ Qurs appeared so inadequate to oppose
them by Fort Moultrie, that they were all ordered up to town.
On the first alarm of the arrival of the enemy, the Eagle pilot-

1780.] SIEGE OF CHAELESTOJJ". 271

boat was despatched to the Ilavannali to solicit assistance
from Spain. Colonel Touant went with the despatches^
and has this evening returned. Keport says that he has suc-
ceeded, and that we may expect three seventy-fours and thir-
teen frigates every hour, with three thousand land forces.
Nothing has yet transpired from authority. I am just come
from the general's, but can learn nothing without being too in-
quisitive. It is now left to a stand in the town, which I trust
will remain until "Woodford arrives with the Virginia line. Tlie
enemy have not yet summoned the town, nor made any move-
ment indicating an immediate attack. It is said that Lord
Cornwallis is against it entirely, and that the army seems much
dispirited ; but Clinton is bent on it. This is the most of our
present intelligence. Our lines round the whole town are
nearly completed, except by Gadsden's wharf, where the works
on the bay should join those on the land. Our people are
hard at work there now, as we dread the enemy's shipping on
that quarter. "We have on the Ashley Eiver, or south side of
the town, six batteries — some ten guns, some six, some four,
none less, so that no vessel can lay before them. Four of them
cross-fire the only landing-place on that quarter, besides field-
pieces at proper distances all along the line. On the bay side we
have four batteries of Palmetto, and a line of Palmetto. On
the Neck we have seven batteries along the line, some redoubts
to the left, a regular fort to the right, and a horn M^ork by the
gateway. In front of the line is a good line of abattis, a canal,
most of it filled with water, and the side of the canal is abattied
also. Only the north-east corner, rather than a side, by Gads-
den's wharf, is unprovided with proper defence. This, I trust,
Ave will have time to fortify. Four pieces of cannon scour the
canal in front of the lines.

" March 27. — ^This morning Colonel "Washington, with a
party of horse reconnoitring, came up with a light party of
the British, on which an engagement ensued, coionei washm»-
when the Americans took a Colonel Hamilton of *""''' Adventure.
the North Carolina refugees, a Doctor Smith, and seven pri-
vates, and it is said they had seven killed. The Americans
had only one man badly wounded. Tliis action happened

272 DIAKY OF THE EEVOLTJTION. [1780.

"vritliin one linndred yards of the British flying army, consisting
of light infantry and grenadiers, whose marching across the
field to get in the rear of the Americans obliged Colonel "Wash-
ington to order a retreat ; otherwise their whole party Avould
liave been cnt to pieces.'

" March 30. — Yesterday, a large body of British grena-
diers and infantry crossed Ashley Kiver, and to-day they ap-
Coionci Lnurens' pcared before the American lines, where they are
Skirmish. j^Q^y encamped. As the enemy approached. Col-
onel John Lanrens, with a small party, had a brush with the
advance body, in which Captain Bowman, of the North Caroli-
na forces, fell, mnch lamented ; Major Heme and two privates
were wonnded. Tlie enemy's loss is reported to be from twelve
to sixteen killed. A French gentleman, who was volunteer in
the action, says he counted eight and a Highland deserter says
a Colonel St. Clair was mortally woimded."

^^ April 7. — ^Tliis afternoon, about three o'clock. General
"Woodford and his brigade arrived in town, after a most rapid
march of five hundred miles in thii'ty days, in perfect health,
and high spu-its.

'^April 8. — ^Tliis afternoon, between three and five o'clock,
the British fleet passed Fort Moultrie, in a heavy gale, and
British Fleet off anchored between Fort Johnson and Charleston,
Fort Johnson, j^^gj. q^^j- gf j-eacli of the guns from the town,
where they now continue. Tliey were so covered with the
thunder storm as to be invisible near half the time of their
passing. One of their frigates had a fore-topmast shot away
by a camion at the fort, and a store shij) was so injured, in her
rudder, as to be incapable of working, and the gale being
fresh she went on shore, under the guns of our half-moon bat-
tery, on the point of the island, which obliged them to burn
her, to prevent her falling into our hands. After burning a
while she blew up. "We had not a man hurt at the fort,
though they kept up a brisk fire as they passed.

" Our garrison is in good health and high spirits, the town

Pennsylvania Packet, April 25 and May 2.

Extract of a letter from Charleston, in the Pennsylvania Packet, April 23.

a«iiuilii

1780.] SIEGE OF CHAELESTON. 273

■well fortified and defended by a nnmerons artillery ; Sir Ilenry
apjiroacliing very slowly, and our men longing for the hour in
wliic'li lie may afford tliem the oiiportimity of teaching the te-
merity of the present expedition.'

^'■Apnl 12. — ^Day before yesterday, the British having com-
pleted their first parallel, summoned the town to surrender, of
which General Lincoln took no notice; and to-day Clinton
opened his batteries, which are answered by the Americans
with spirit, but not with the effect that will insure success, the
enemy's fire being far superior to ours. Governor Eutledge
has taken post in the country between the Cooper and Santee
Elvers. A work is ordered to be thrown up on the Wando,
nine miles from town, and another at the pioint at Lamprieres,
to preserve the communication with the country by water.'

'■'■Aiml 18. — ^The cannonading on both sides still continues.
General Clinton received a reinforcement from New York yes-
terday, and it is probable he will make a further advance on us
soon. He is very cautious, and moves with all the care and
deliberation of an old Eoman, which he certainly is not. Our
men are in good spirits, although it seems to be the general
opinion that we must at last succumb ; not without a hard
fight, however.

" Last Friday, (lith,) the party of Americans, posted to pre-
serve the communication between the country and the town,
were surprised at Monk's Corner by a body of British imder
the command of Lieutenant-Colonel Tarleton.' A negro slave,
for a sum of money, conducted the British from Goose Creek, in
the night, through unfrequented paths. Although the com-
manding ofiicer of the American cavalry had taken the pre-
caution of having his horses saddled and bridled, and the
alarm was given by his videttes, posted at the distance of a
mile in front ; yet, being entirely unsupported by the infantry,
the British advanced so rapidly, notwithstanding the opposi-
tion of the advanced guard, that they began their attack upon
the main body before the men could put themselves in a pos-
ture of defence.

^ Pennsylvania Packet, May 2. ' Clift's Diary; and Gordon, iii. 47.

' EUiot Manuscript.
Vol II.— 18

274r DIAKY OF THE KEVOLrXION. [1780.

'■'•April 21. — ^Tlie Britisli have completed their second par-
allel, which is within three hundred yards of the American
lines. At a council of war held this morning, it was decided
that offers of capitulation should be made to the British com-
mander, ' which may admit of the army's withdrawing, and
afford security to the persons and property of the inhabitants.'

'■'■April 21:. — Sir Hemy Clinton rejects the American offers
of capitulation, and is actively pushing forward his third paral-
lel, which is not more than three hundred feet from our lines.
This morning Lieutenant-Colonel Henderson led out a party
of Americans, and attacked the advance working party of the
British, killed several, took eleven prisoners, and returned to
the lines victorious. In this sally, Captain Moultrie, a brother
of the general, was killed."

"■May 6.— This afternoon, the garrison at Fort IMoultrie
was summoned to surrender by Captain Charles Hudson, com-
mander of his Majesty's ship Eichmond. The commander of
the fort answered, ' it should be defended to the last extrem-
ity ; ' but the officer carrying the refusal had proceeded but a
little way on his return, when he was called back and told
that the storm which was threatened by Captain Hudson must
prove a very serious affair, and therefore the garrison had
consented to submission."

" May 12. — Yesterday the Britisli advanced within thirty
yards of the American lines, and commenced preparations for
^^^ a combined assault by sea and land. The reduced

Capitulation, g^ate of the garrison, the urgent solicitations of the
inhabitants, and the clamors of the soldiery, compelled Gen-
eral Lincoln to renew negotiations with the British command-
ers ; and to-day the articles of capitulation have been signed.

' Gordon, iii. 48.

' Kivington's Gazette, May 31. The same paper says :— We are informed a
great quantity of silver plate was found in tlie fort on taking possession of it. The
inhabitants of Carolina in general, buried their plate in Charleston, thinking it a
safer depositum than risking it underground on their plantations, where, from
the curious and nefarious disposition of their negroes, resident on the spot, it
should be discovered and stolen ; and by preferring this method of concealment,
they have all secured their effects.

1780.] SIEGE OF CHARLESTON. 275

It is stipulated that tlie Continental troops and sailors shall re-
main prisoners of war until exchanged, and be si;pplied with
good and wholesome provisions, in such quantity as is served
out to the British troops. Tlie militia are to return home as
prisoners on parole, which, as long as they observe, is to secure
them from being molested in their property by British troops.
The officers of the army and navy are to keep their swords,
piistols, and baggage, which is not to be searched, and are to re-
tain their servants. Tlie garrison, at an appointed hour, is to
march out of the town, to the ground between the works and
the canal, where they are to deposit their arms. The drums are
not to beat a British march, nor the colors to be uncased. All
civil officers and citizens who have borne arms during the
siege, are to be prisoners on parole, and with respect to their
property within the city, they are to have the same terms as
the militia. All persons in the town, not described in any
article, are, notwithstanding, to be prisoners on parole. It is
left to future discussion whether or no a year shall be allowed
to all such as do not choose to continue under the British gov-
ernment, to dispose of their effects real and personal, in the
State, without any molestation whatever, or to remove such
part thereof as they choose, as well as themselves and families,
and whether, during that time, they, or any of them, shall
have it in their option to reside occasionally in town or coun-
try. Tlie French consul, the subjects of France and Spain,
with their houses, papers, and otlier movable property, are to
be protected and untouched ; but they are to consider them-
selves as prisoners on parole." '

Mat 14. — Among the many good effects which daily arise
from General Sir Henry Clinton's descent upon the Carolina
Sultans, we are told the following: The inhab- The Effect of
itants of Hillsborough county. North Carolina, cunton's success.
have sent a deputation informing Lieuten ant-General Earl
Cornwallis that they have taken arms, declared for the resto-
ration of their old constitution, and are ready to march on

' Gordon's American Revolution, iii. 49.

276 DIAKT OF THE KEVOLUTION. [1780.

receipt of his lordsliip's commands for that purpose, and carry
his lordship's order into the most perfect eftect.

The rebel colonels of the South Carolina cavalry, Messieurs
Uuger and Horry, having been sent to his excellency Gen-
eral Clinton with a letter, they approached head-quarters,
preceded with a white handkerchief on a pole, by way of
flag, and communicated to the gentlemen in waiting their
orders, which implied a modest proposal of a treaty for an ex-
change of prisoners, addressed by Mr. Eutledge, the titular
governor of South Carolina ; to which answer was given that
no such character could be acknowledged ; and, as their mes-
sengers had violated their parole, by venturing into Charles-
ton without leave of absence from their prescribed limits first
obtained, they were immediately committed to the custody
of the illustrious Mr. Cunningham, provost -marshal ; where,
having remained a short time as a punishment for their pre-
sumption, they were indulged with an order delivered by the
Honorable George Hanger for their enlargement, and a hint
to fly in the night, and thereby escape with their lives from
the fury of the inflamed loyalists, who were already collected
in great numbers at Charleston, determined to seize the first
occasion of retaliating on the rebels the many murders com-
mitted upon their relations by their mock courts of judica-
ture, Mr. Kutledge having signed the death-warrants of several
scores of his Majesty's liege subjects who were by their juries
condemned to the cord. These gentry took the hint, and with
the rapidity of the winged Pegasus, or the fiery -footed Phle-
gon, soon in safety reached their appointed district."

"When it was found necessary to call in the detachment of

American troops which had been posted at Lampriere's Ferry,"

Anecdote of oppositc to Charleston, South Carolina, three men

Joseph wigfaii. Qf General Hogan's North Carolina brigade were

by some accident left behind ; who, being in danger of falling

' Rivington's Gazette, June 11.

' After the British had been strengthened by the reinforcements from New
Tork, on the 18th of. April, they toolc post on Haddrcll's Point, and obliged the
Americans to abandon their post at Lamprieres.

1780.] ANECDOTE OF JOSEPH WIGFALL. 277

into tlie enemy's hands, took shelter in the -woods, and -were
travelling on towards Georgetown. Li hopes of facilitating
their march, and to profit by misfortune, one of them, who
was clad in scai-let, suggested a stratagem of which his com-
rades approved, and which he carried into effect. He left his
anns and ammunition with the other two, and went into the
plantation of a poltroon Tory, or one of those mean-spirited
wretches who ought forever to bo stigmatized xmder the char-
acter of property men, and to be made fair game to all parties.
These creatures were early eager and noisy in fomenting the
present war, but withdrew themselves the moment in which
their feai's dictated danger to their persons or their estates.

The brave North Carolinian personated a messenger de-
spatched by some of that tribe, and addressed the owner of
the plantation in the following tenns :• — "Sir, I understand you
are a friend to the King and his government." Tlie property
man, not a little alarmed at the sight of a red-coat, hastily in-
terrupted him, " Yes, yes, sir ! I am as true, faithful, and
loyal a subject as any in his Majesty's dominions." " I have
been told so," said the soldier. " I am sent by some of his
Majesty's friends to inform Lord Cornwallis of the approach
of a rebel army from the nortliward, which is coming on very
rapidly, and I am afraid will surprise that pai-t of the King's
army which his lordship commands in this qiiarter of the coun-
try, unless his lordship is speedily apprised of their design. I
have travelled through swamps and thick woods to avoid be-
ing stopped by the rebels ; and last night liad the misfortune
to lose my horse, saddle, &c., &c. " Sir," replied the Tory,
" you shall have the best horse I am master of, my own riding
horse, and I beg you will be expeditioi^s in delivering your
message ; for if the rebels come here I shall be ruined, per-
haps hanged ; I don't knoAV what they'll do to me, because I
am a faithful subject. Boy ! saddle Spider, and bring him im-
mediately for this gentleman — make haste." Spider, a fine
blooded horse, was produced, with saddle, bridle, holsters and
pistols. This encouraged the soldier to intimate the loss of his
side-arms. The turn-coat, with eqiial haste, supplied him with
his own militia sword. "When the soldier was ready to mount,

278 DIAKT OF THE EEVOLUTION. [17S0.

he remarked the -weather looked gloomy, and threatened rain,
and that, among other articles, he had lost his surtout. " Sir,"
said the apostate, " I have a very fine roculoe at your service ;
pray, make use of it, and go on as fast as possible, through
Avet and dry : your business is of great consequence." Thus
equipped, the soldier rode off, and presently rejoined his com-
panions, who were waiting for him in the bush. Tlie three,
all armed, and one nioimted, proceeded on their journey for
Georgetown. "When they had marched a few miles, they en-
countered two of the British light horse, who had been ma-
rauding and plundering helpless women of their apparel.
These fellows they took into custody, and conducted them
safely into Georgetown, together with Spider and his furni-
ture, the captured cavalry and their accoutrements, the sil-
ver mounted sword, and the " very fine roculoe," splendidly
marked on the cape, Joseph "Wigfall.

This genius, or a brother of his, had been a militia officer
for a while, and affected to bear arms against the tyrant, as he
then called his King. In a voyage which he made some time
ago to Bermuda, his vanity prompted to take with him his
regimentals, for showing away among the islanders. On his
return, tlie A'esscl in Avliicli he was passenger, was chased by
another, supposed to be a British cruiser. His apprehensions
of being discovered in the sham character of a rebel officer,
pointed out tlie necessity of concealing the blue coat with
scarlet lappels, which he effected by putting it on the body of
his wife, covered by her stays and gown. These circumstances
were related on his landing in North Carolina, by himself, in
great glee, as an instance of his sagacity, or, as he termed it,
" being too cunning for the chaps." '

A GENTLEMAN wlio lately left Albany, says that the chief
Continental butcher there, is ordered to employ a number of
The Continental ^^^*^ otlicr butclicrs iu catcliiug fisli, sucli as her-

Butcber. j.j,jg ^^^^ sturgcou, for tlic iisc of the (-ontinental
army, as their money is reduced to so low an ebb that they

' Pennsylvania Packet, July 15.

1780.] THE DAEK DAY. 279

cannot afford beef ; and that they have a guard at the farm
of General Scliuyler, near Saratoga, to prevent the inhabitants
getting any share of the fishing.'

The ladies of Charleston, since the capture of that place,
have uniformly refused to associate with the British officers, or
to attend any of their assemblies, or places of The Ladies of
public amusement ; and, having been reduced to Charleston.
the necessity of selling their buckles for a subsistence, they
now wear black and white roses iu their shoes, in honor of the
alliance.'

May 20. — Testeeday we were visited by a most unusual
and uncomfortable phenomenon. As early as ten o'clock in
the morning, a thick darkness came over the face ^^^

of the country, so that it was impossible to move ^^"''^ °''^-
about the house M'ithout the assistance of a candle. Many
persons were much frightened at the sudden darkness, and
some thought that judgment-day had come. The cause of this
strange appearance is now explained.

A writer in the Boston Country Journal gives the follow-
ing particuhir account of the phenomenon : — "As the darkness
which happened on last Friday was imusual, and to many people
surprising, it will no doubt gratify the public to liave the ob-
servations which have been made in various parts, communi-
cated. In this way we may learn the extent, and perhaps
ascertain the cause, of so remarkable a phenomenon. "With
these views I send you the enclosed.

" The observations from the first coming on of the darkness
to four o'clock p. m., were made by several gentlemen of lib-
eral education, at the house of the Eev. Mr. Cutler, of Ipswich
Hamlet. There are some things worth noticing before and
after this time. Tlie hemisphere for several days had been
greatly obscured with smoke and vapor, so that the sun and
moon appeared unusually red. On Tliursday afternoon and

Rivington's Gazette, May 17.
'Ivania Packet, March ;

280 DIAET OF THE REVOLUTION. [1780.

in the evening, a thick cloud lay along at the sontli and sonth-
west, the wind small. Friday morning earlj^, the sun appeared
as it had done for several days before, the wind about south-
west, a light breeze, and the clouds from the south-west came
over between eight and nine o'clock ; the sun was quite shut
in, and it began to shower, the clouds continuing to rise from
the south-west, and thicken from the thickness of the clouds,
and the confusion which attended their motions. We ex-
pected a violent gust of wind and rain ; the wind, however,
near the earth, continued small, and it rained but little. About
eleven o'clock the darkness was such as to demand our atten-
tion, and put us upon making observations. At half-past elev-
en, in a room with three windows, twenty-four panes each, all
opened towards the south-east and south, large print could not
be read by persons of good eyes. About twelve o'clock, the
windows being still open, a candle cast a shade so well defined
on the wall, as tliat profiles were taken with as much ease
as they could have been in the night. About one o'clock, a
glimpse of light which had continued till this time in the east,
shut in, and the darkness was greater than it had been for any
time before. Between one and two o'clock, the wind at the
west freshened a little, and a glimpse of light appeared in that
quarter. "We dined about two, the windows all open, and two
candles burning on the table. In tliis time of tlie greatest
darkness, some of the dunghill fowls went to their roost ; cocks
crowed in answer to each other, as they commonly do in the
night ; wood-cocks, wliich are night birds, whistled as they do
only in the dark ; frogs peeped ; in short, there was the ap-
pearance of midnight at noon-day. About three o'clock the
light in the west increased, the motion of the clouds more thick,
their color higher and more brassy than at any time before ;
there appeared to be quick flashes or coruscations, not unlike the
aurora borealis. Between three and four o'clock we were out
and perceived a strong, sooty smell ; some of the company were
confident a cliimncy in the neighborliood must be burning ; oth-
ers conjectured the smell was more like that of burned leaves.
Aboiit half-past four, our company, which had passed an unex-
pected night very cheerfully together, broke up. I will noAv

1T80.] ATTACK ON UOESE NECK. 281

give you wliat I noticed afterwards. I found tlie people at tlie
taveru near by much agitated. Among other things which gave
them much surprise, they mentioned the strange appearance and
smell of the rain water, which they had saved in tubs. Upon
examining the water, I found a slight scum over it, which, rub-
bing between my thumb and finger, I found to be nothing but the
black ashes of burnt leaves. The water gave the same black,
sooty smell which we had observed in the air, and confirmed
me m my opinion that the smell mentioned above was occa-
sioned by the smoke, or very small particles of burnt leaves,
which had obscured the hemisphere for several days past, and
were now brought down by the rain. The appearance last
mentioned served to confirm the hj'pothesis on which we had
endeavored to account for the unusual darkness. The vast
body of smoke from the woods, which had been burning for
many days, mixing with the common exhalations from the earth
and water, and condensed by the action of winds from oppo-
site points, may perhaps be sufiicient causes to produce the
surprising darkness.

"The wind in the evening passed round further north, where
a black cloud lay, and gave us reason to expect a sudden gust
from that quarter. Tlie wind brought that body of smoke and
vapor over us in the evening, (at Salem, Massachusetts,) and
perhaps it never was darker since the children of Israel left
the house of bondage. This gross darkness held till about one
o'clock, although the moon had fulled but the day before.

" Between one and two, the wind freshened up at north-east,
and drove the smoke and clouds away, which had given dis-
tress to thousands, and alarmed the brute creation." '

Mat 23. — ^Yesterday afternoon. Colonel Delanccy, with a
party of his loyal refugees, made an incursion of about thirty
miles into the enemy's country. The foot took Doiancey-s Attack
post at Byram Bridge, while the horse passed on uorse Neck.
Sherwood's Bridge, and proceeded to Horse Neck, where a
party of rebels were stationed. They immediately attacked

' " Viator," in the Country Journal, May 29, and New Jersey Gazette, June 21

282 DIAET OF THE EEVOLUTIOX. [1780.

tliem, killed eight, took prisoners a lieiitenant, a commissary,
a Mr. Knap, a Presbyterian parson, and thirty-six rank and
file ; also took and destroyed a pieoe of cannon, which the
Jonathans in vain endeavored to defend. The loyalists were
so quick upon them that they coidd not discharge it more than
twice before it was taken possession of. Lieutenant Kipp, with
a small detachment under his command, took six prisoners at
another place. The loss of the rebels woirld have been much
greater liad it not been for a wood near where they lay, in
which they took shelter, and where it was impossible for Col-
onel Delancey's horse to act. Tlie only loss the refugees sus-
tained, was Captain Fowler, a brave and gallant officer, who
Avas unfortunately killed from a window of the house where
the picket guard was posted.'

June 1. — ^The love and attachment of the French nation
for America, is carried at this time to such a degree of en-
Doctor Fmnkiin thusiasm as is difficult to be conceived. Tliere
and the French, j^j.^ ^^^^ pcrsouages that have borne an interest-
ing part in this contest, but have emi)loyed the hands of the
most famous artists, and the pens of the brightest geniuses of
that nation. But among so many illustrious characters, tlic
celebrated Dr. Franklin is distinguished in a particular man-
ner ; and of the several homages that are incessantly offered
to his merit, none must ever have been more flattering to him
than the provinces of France contending with each other for
having given birth to some of his ancestors, and endeavoring
to prove by similarity of names that this great man derives
his descent from among them — an honor of which, since the
days of Homer, (who excited a like dispute among seven of
the most flourishing cities of Greece,) nobody lias ever been
thought worthy.

The following extract from the Gazette of Amiens, the cap-
ital of Picardy, in France, is the most convincing proof of
what has been just now advanced :

" Mr. Fkagonaed, the King's painter at Paris, has lately

■ Rivington's Gazette, May 27.

1780.] FEAIsKLIN AlfD TILE FRENCU. 283

displayed the utmost efforts of his genius in an elegant picture
dedicated to the genius of Franklin. Mr. Franklin is repre-
sented in it, opposing with one hand the regis of Minerva to
the thunderbolt, which he first knew how to fix by his con-
ductors, and with the other commanding the god of war to
fight against avarice and tyranny ; whilst America, nobly re-
clining upon him, and holding in her hand the fasces, a true
emblem of the union of the American States, looks down with
tranquillity on her defeated enemies. Tlie painter, in this
picture, most beautifully expressed the idea of the Latin verse,
which has been so justly applied to Mr. Franklin :

' Eripuit CcpIo fulmen, sccptrumque Tyrannis.'
' He snatched the thunderbolt from Heaven,
And the scepter from the hands of Tyrants.'

" Tlie name of Franklin is sufiiciently celebrated that one
may glory in beai-ing it ; and a nation prides herself in having
given birth to the ancestors of a man wlio has rendered that
name so famous. We think ourselves entitled to dispute with
the English nation an honor of which they have rendered them-
selves so unworthy. Franklin appears rather to be of a French
than of an English origin. It is certain that the name of
Franklin, or Franquelin, is very common in Picardy, especially
in the districts of Vimeu and Ponthieu. It is very probable
that one of the doctor's ancestors has been an inhabitant of
this country, and has gone over to England with the fleet of
Jean de Biencourt, or that which was fitted out by the nobility
of this province. In genealogical matters there are bolder
conjectures than this. There was at Abbeville, in the fifteenth
and sixteenth centuries, a family of the name of Franklin. We
see in the public records of the town, one John and Thomas
Franquelin, woollen drapers in 1521. This family remained
at Abbeville till the year 1600 ; they have since been dis-
persed through the country, and there are still some of their
descendants so far as Auz Ic Chateau. Tliese observations are
a new homage which we offer to the genius of Franklin." '

' Pennsylvania Packet, June 3.

284: DIAET OF THE EEVOLUTION. [lYSO.

June 8. — Br the latest intelligence from Selieneetadj, in
New York, we are informed that Sir John Johnson, (who styles
Sir John Johnson ^i"iself lieutenant-colonel commanding the King's
at Johnson Hall, j^ojal Torkcrs, in the paroles given to some of the
prisoners,) on Lord's day evening, the twenty-first of last month,
(May,) made his first appearance at Johnson Hall, undiscov-
ered by any but his friends, who, no doubt, were in the secret.
On Monday, about daybreak, they began to burn all the houses
except those of the Tories ; beginning at Aaron Putnam's, be-
low Tripe's Hill, and continued burning to Anthony's Nose, or
Acker's house, except a few which, by the vigilance of the
people, were put out after the enemy had set them on fire.
There are burnt, thirty-three houses and out-houses, and a
mill ; many cattle were killed in the field, and sixty or seven-
ty sheep burnt in a barn. Eleven persons were killed. Colo-
nel Fisher and his two brothers fought with great bravery,
when the two brothers were killed and scalped. The colonel
went up stairs and there defended himself ; but, being over-
powered, was knocked down and scalped, on wliich they plun-
dered the house, set it on fire, and then went off. Tlie colonel
reviving a little, though he was left by the enemy for dead,
pulled one of his dead brothers out of the house, then in
flames ; the other was consumed in the house. It is said the
motlier had a narrow escape for her life, being knocked on the
head by an Indian ; but she is like to do well. Captain Han-
sen was killed by an Indian, who had formerly been used by
him with kindness, and professed much gratitude. Old Mr.
Fonda was .cut in several parts of his head Avith a tomahawk.
Had it not been for the alertness of Mr. Van Vrank, probably
more would have been butchered by their savage hands. He
alarmed the people along the way to Caughnawaga, who, by
crossing the river, saved their lives. Having done all the mis-
chief to the distressed inhabitants they possibly could, they re-
turned to Jolmson Hall in the afternoon, when Johnson dug up
his plate, and about sundown marched for the Scotch Bush,
about foiir miles, that evening. He took with him fifteen or
twenty of his negroes, who had been sold. Several of his tenants
and others, are gone with him. He has permitted some of his

1780.] BEITISH AT CONNECTICUT FAEMS. 285

prisoners to return on parole. His wliole force when he laud-
ed at Cro-^vn Point, is said to be about live hundred men — Uxo
hundred of them British, part of his oavu regiment, and Indi-
ans. Captain Putnam and four men followed them in their
retreat four days, on their way to Lake Champlain. He saw
him twenty-four miles from Johnson Hall. Some think they
will take their route to Oswagatchie ; but this seems improba-
ble, as they have not provisions sufficient with them. His
excellency the governor has collected a body of militia to in-
tercept their way to Lake Champlain ; a number have also
marched from JSTew Hampshire Grants (Vermont) for the pur-
pose. Colonel Yan Schaick, with eight himdred men, is in
pursuit of hun by the way of Johnstown. "We hear the ene-
my had their feet much swelled by their long march ; and
being greatly fatigued, it is hoped our people may come up
and give a good account of the lieutenant-colonel and his mur-
dering banditti.'

June 9. — Last Tuesday night, (6th,) between eleven and
twelve o'clock, a body of the British, commanded by General
Ejiyphausen in person, landed at Elizabethtown Knyphanscr-s

T-.. .T IT. .IT T1 Attick on Connec-

Pomt, m Jersey, who, bemg tnnely discovered by tiout Farms.
the American guards, gave the troops that were in town, com-
manded by Colonel Dayton, an opportunity to assemble ; but,
on reconnoitring them, their force was found inadequate for an
attack. Of course a retreat became indispensable, which was
performed in good order, with the enemy in their rear, until
they arrived at Connecticut Fanns, where they fell in with the
Jersey brigade ; and being joined by a few militia, posted
themselves on an advantageous piece of groimd, thinking it
advisable to check the advance of the enemy, which, with sin-
gular bravery, they eifectually did, and annoyed them consid-
erably, driving them back some distance. The British then
brought up some field-pieces which played briskly, but happily
without any effect. Tlie Amei-icans kept them here about two
hom-s, until they were reinforced by the second division, which

■ New Jersey Gazette, June 21.

286 DIAET OF THE EEVOLUTION. [1780.

had landed some time after the first, and had marched up has-
tily. Tliey tlien gained that ground, though not without con-
siderahlc loss, and some wounded on that of the Americans.
Their advance after that Avas very tardy ; yet they seemed to
show an inclination to possess themselves of Springfield, until
they received a few shot from a piece of cannon, not without
some efi"ect ; which obliged them again to retreat, and the day
was spent in continual skirmishing, by Avhich they suffered
amazingly. Since their retreat, forty or fifty of their dead,
which they had secretly buried, have been found. Among
the number it is said, is a son of Count Donop, who has met
the fate of his hapless father.

As soon as they came to Connecticut Farms, seven miles
from the place of tlieir landing, they began the exercise of
tlieir awful cruelty. Although they observed great discipline
and decorum in Elizabethtown, yet at the Farms every step was
marked with wanton cruelty and causeless devastation. They
set fire to, and entirely destroyed, the Presbyterian church, and
fourteen dwelling-houses and barns, so that there are but two
dwelling-houses remaining in that fertile settlement. But,
alas ! this is only one part of the horrid scene.

In this neighborhood lived the Eev. Mr. James Caldwell,
whose zeal and activity in the caiise of his country had ren-

Mur.i^rnf dered him an object wortliy of the enemy's keen-
Mrs. faWweii. pg|. 1-osentment. His vigilance and attention had
always evaded every attempt to injure liim, and therefore it
was now determined to wound him in an nnguarded part.
Following the absurd principles of too many of our incaxitious
countrymen, he left his wife and family at home, trusting to
the politeness and humanity of the enemy towards an amiable
woman, and a number of helpless and innocent children, tliough
he did not think it prudent to trust them with his own safety.
He liad been warned of their utmost hatred to him, and there-
fore dissuaded from leaving his family in their power ; but,
alas ! his confidence in their benevolence towards the helpless
has been his destruction.

Soon after their possessing themselves of the neighborhood,
a soldier came to the house, and putting his gmi to the window

1780.] MUEDEE OF IIKS. CALDWELL. 287

of the room where this worthy woman was sittinp;, (with her
chihh-en, and a maid with an infant in her arms, along side of
her,) lie shot her through the Inngs dead on the spot. Soon
after an oflicer with two Hessians came in, and oi'dered a hole
dug and her body thrown in, and the house to be set on fire.
At the earnest request of an officer of the new levies, and
with some difficulty, the body was suffered to be carried to a
small house in the neighborhood, and Mr. Caldwell's dwelling-
house immediately set on fire, and every thing belonging to
liira consumed together. The only comfort arising to this
afflicted family is, that the wretch who served as the execu-
tioner of this murdered lady, (who, from her excellent charac-
ter, deserved a better fate,) ' did his business so effectually that
she lost her life withoiit distress or pain. Thus it is, that even
the tender mercies of the wicked are cruelty. This melan-
choly affair, with their cruel burnings, has raised the resent-
ment of the whole country to the highest pitch. They are
ready almost to swear an everlasting enmity to the very name
of a Briton. So fiir is this cruelty and devastation from terri-
fying them to submission, that it rouses the most timid to feats
of desperate heroism. A most worthy man, who has for four
years past devoted himself to the service of his country, is thus
left Avith nine small children, destitute even of a shift of
clothes to comfort them. Many of the inhabitants arc in a
similar situation ; some widows, some aged, some infirm.

Tlie British being opposed by a regiment of Colonel Day-
ton's, and such militia as covdd be suddenly collected, made a
slow advance till they came to a bridge at the entrance of
Springfield, where the militia had an old iron four-pound field-

' Never did religion produce a more complete triumph than in this virtuous
woman. Her constitution was by nature feeble and delicate, and her mind orna-
mented more with tender than robust passions ; yet such was her confidence in
the unerring wisdom and perfect rectitude of the divine conduct — such the full
assurance of her hope, that the approach of such an enemy, with the terrors of
war, could neither cloud her countenance nor ruffle her mind to the last moment.
Long since had she gained complete victory over the king of terrors ; and only
wished to Uve for the good of others, and in particular that she might impress her
image upon her lovely offspring as they advanced in life. These benevolent views
are now terminated by the British murderers. — New Jersey Journal, June 14.

288 DIAET OF THE EEYOLUTIOK. [1Y80.

piece, whicli tliey used to such pni-pose tliat the enemy were
driven back for some considerable distance. Being thus en-
couraged, Colonel Dayton's regiment, and the militia together,
pressed upon them, and killed and wounded many of them :
the general estimate is about one hundred. As our people
were reinforced they gained firmness, and at night the enemy
had secured no farther than Connecticut Fanns. In the night,
having received an express from General Clinton in South Car-
olina, they immediately began a retreat ; and by ten o'clock on
Thursday, they had gained Elizabethtown Point, from whence
they sent olf all their wagons, a part of their artillery, and
some of then- cavalry. Lord Stirling, with General Iland's
brigade, and the militia, was detached close on their rear, and
between Elizabethtown and the Point had a very severe skir-
mish, with some loss on both sides. From what we can collect
from the inliabitants of the Farms, many of whose houses were
filled with their wounded, tliey must have suffered considera-
bly. General Stirling had his thigh broken. !Never did troops
behave better than the Americans. Tlie militia behaved be-
yond any thing tliat could have been expected. Tlio Conti-
nental ofiicers gave them the greatest credit. It is said the
enemy had been persuaded that after the taking of Charleston,
the militia would all submit, and the Continental troops would
desert. It seems as if the militia had kno^-n these suggestions.
Kever did they so universally turn out on such short notice,
and never with better spirits. Tliis morning at least two
thousand of them were below the mountains, and more flock-
ing down continually. Colonel Dayton deserves the greatest
credit, as do all his officers, who behaved unexceptionably.

Tlie British were all day yesterday manoeuvring to bring on
a general engagement, and General "Washington was trying to
draw them from their strong position on the Point, where it
was impossible to attack them with advantage. Both have
failed, and General "Washington hath drawn back the main
body of the army above Springfield to refresh them, as they
are exceedingly fatigued with two days and two nights lying
on their arms. Every thing has been carried on with great
propriety, and we are in liopes their gentry Avill be obliged to

17S0.] OPERATIONS IN JERSEY. 289

retire, notwitlistanding their sanguine expectations. General
Knyphausen, it is said, brought over his carriage, expecting to
have considerable use for it. Tliere is a brigade left to watch
their motions at Elizabethtown, with a number of the militia.
They are in such force that it is supposed they intend to pene-
trate the country, and from some hints that have dropped, they
have Pennsylvania in their eye, if they can beat General
Washington.'

A British officer gives the following account of the recent
operations of the royal army in New Jersey : — " On Tuesday
night, (6th,) the British troops made their first British Account of
landing upon Elizabethtown meadows, and were Jersey.
crossed over by divisions in succession from Staten Island, with
some light artillery, taking their route by Elizabethto%vn and
Connecticut Farms, towards Springfield.

" Dayton's regiment receiving intimation of our approach,
retired with precipitation, as did also the other Jersey regi-
ments which compose Maxwell's brigade, from their position
near Camp's. Tlie militia of the country, although incapable
of making any fixed resistance, did their utmost to incommode
the troops upon their march ; and collecting from different
quarters, they assembled in some force in the vicinity of
Springfield, forming a junction with the Jersey brigade at
tliat place ; and it is said that in the course of Wednesday,
the seventh instant, they were supported by another brigade
detached from Morristown.

" The troops halted upon some heights beyond Connecticut
Farms, where they were ordered to take post till such time as
the remainder of the artillery, the provision and other wagons,
with the corps which brought up the rear, joined the army.
From this circumstance it is probable the rebels conceived that
•whatever might have been the original plan, it was intended
to penetrate no farther. Increasing in numbers, they used
every exertion in their power, in flying parties, to fire upon
the advanced pickets ; and during the course of the day they

' Pennsylvania Packet, June 13.

290 DIAEY OF THE EEVOLTJTIQN. [1780.

made different attacks upon a body of Jagers, wliicli was ad-
vanced upon tlie Springfield road. This produced mucli firing
upon both sides.

" During the course of the evening, it is reported that infor-
mation was received from the southward, which rendered it
expedient to defer the object in agitation ; and about two hours
afterwards the troops returned towards Elizabethtown, withoiit
a single shot being fired, taking post upon the heights near the
Point.

" On Tliursday the eighth instant, the rebels advanced in
some force to Elizabethtown, and made an attack upon the
twenty-second regiment, which was posted some little distance
in front of the line. This regiment was ordered to fall back,
and the rebels conceiving it was the rear guard of the army,
they advanced mih some rapidity, but were soon checked, and
retired with precipitation.

"The loss sustained during the course of this service is in-
considerable ; nor can that of the rebels be determmed, as they
conceal it.

" Whilst the troops were advancing to Connecticut Fai-ms,
the rebels fired out of the houses, agreeable to their usiial
British Account of practice, from which circumstance Mrs. Caldwell

Duath. had the misfortune to be shot by a random ball.
"What heightens the singularity of this lady's fate is, that upon
inquiry, it appears beyond a doubt that the shot was fired
by the rebels themselves, as it entered the side of the house
from their direction, and lodged in the wall nearest to the
troops, when advancing. Tlie manner in which the rebels ag-
gi-avate this unfortunate affair in their publications, is of a
piece with their uniform conduct — plausible, but fallacious ;
nor is it to be wondered at, if a rebellion which originated in
falsehood, is prosecuted with deceit. The soldiery received
with smiles one moment, and the following instant butchered
(for in a military view it merits no other name) by a set of
people, who, by their clothing and appointments, cannot be
distinguished from the quiet inhabitants of the country, may
well be supposed to be exasperated ; nor need Ave be surprised
at their using the torch to dwellings which they find hom-ly

17S0.] EEV. NATHAN KKKE. 291

occupied by armed men, who either want the generosity or the
spirit to close the present unhappy contest by a manly, open,
soldier-like decorum. "Whatever may be the hmnane wishes
of the commanders, human nature at times steps over the bar-
rier of discipline, and men of judgment and wisdom, in the
great scale of political reasoning, do not wonder at occurrences
which their private feelings shrink at ; such are the eiFects of
intestine divisions. Miserable is the fate of that country which
is the theatre of such a quarrel ; and accursed is the man, or
the set of naen, who, from motives of private lucre or inordi-
nate ambition, have fanned a flame which, if they were willuag,
they are now, perhaps, unable to extinguish." '

June 14. — ^ISTathan Kjeee, the pastor of Goshen, in New
York, in a sermon delivered the last shearing time to his flock,
previous to the sending his deacons among them ^5^. Nathan
to collect the fleece, used many curious and pa- ^"'■•
thetic arguments to induce them to pay in their several sub-
scriptions with a proper allowance for the depreciation of the
paper currency. lie complained much of the injustice of a
contrary conduct, and charged the neglect of the ministers in
this respect, upon them, as one of those crying sins which had
called down so many heavy judgments on their heads. That
these might be removed, he strongly recommended to them to
repent, particularly of the heinous sin of defrauding the min-
isters. Tlicn, with uplifted eyes and hands, and plaintive tone
of voice, addressed himself to the Almighty in nearly the fol-
lowing words : " O God ! our com is blasted ! our fruit is all
cut off ! our flax is caught under the snow, so that we shall
soon have neither shirt nor shift ! And what, oh God ! dost
You intend to do with thy people next ? " '

June 24. — ^Yesteedat morning, the British marched in
force from Elizabethtown, New Jersey, under command of
the unprincipled, mercenary Ivnyphausen. After Descent on
driving in the American pickets, they reached springfleid, n. j.
Connecticut Farms about sunrise, where a scatteiing fire be-

' Kivingtoii's Gazette, June 21. ' Same, June 14.

292 DIAEY OF THE KEVOLUTION. [1780.

gan between them and a few of tlie advanced troops, assisted
hj part of the militia. However, as the Americans had but
two Continental brigades, and two brigades of militia, and the
enemy's force, by estimation, live thousand men and six pieces
of artillery, they could give them but little impediment until
they arrived at Springfield bridge, where a very obstiuate re-
sistance was made to their passing it. After a very consider-
able loss, the British carried it and entered the village. The
Amei'icans retired to the ridge of hills in rear of the town,
and took their position, expecting them to advance towards
Morristown ; biit after recovering from their fatigue, collecting
tlieir killed and wounded, they began a most distressing scene.
They burned the Presbyterian meeting-house, and nineteen
dwelling-houses, with the chief of their standing furniture.
They then began a most rapid retreat, and the Americans pur-
sued them to their works, killing and wounding many of them.
During their expedition, several of them deserted, both British
and Hessians. The American loss is very small; only one
officer fell — First Lieutenant Thompson, of artillery, a very
brave man.

This morning some of the horsemen have been down to
Elizabethtown, and find that the British went over to Staten
Island last night, took up their bridge, and bid us farewell.
Deserters and prisoners agree that their next expedition will
be carried on up the North River.'

DuEiNG the siege of Charleston, parties were frequently
sent down to beat up the British quarters about Savannah
Colonel Twisgs' '"^itli a vicw to distrcss the enemy, and to draw
Expedient, troops from the siege. Colonel Twiggs, with his
men, united with a party of South Carolina militia, iinder the
command of Colonel Pickens, a very gallant, good officer, went
down with respectable force, and drove the enemy within their
redoubts. Tliey took post upon Ogeechce, the latter at But-
ler's jjlantations, two miles from the ferry ; and the former on
Governor "Wright's, lying u]ion the river. A party of one
hundred men, draMTi chiefly from the corps of York volun-

' Extract of a letter from the camp, in the New Jersey Gazette, June 28.

1780.] COLONEL TWIGGs' EXPEDIENT. 293

teers, and a Hessian regiment, was sent out of Savannali to
attack them, under the conmiand of Captain Conklin, of Cruger's
battalion. Colonel Twiggs' post being nearest the enemy, of
course had first to engage. Conklin planned the attack in the
usual way of the British, in front and .flank, which would ap-
pear the more distressing as the colonel had but thirty-two
men with him. He detached Captain Innman with eight men,
to check the detour on his left, under Lieutenant Supple, with
fifteen men, while he himself, with the remainder, opposed the
enemy's main body under Captain Conklin. The colonel's men
are celebrated for sure shots ; and being so much inferior in
numbers, and Colonel Pickens too far distant to succor him in
time, he had recourse to an expedient which, in such cases, is
certainly justifiable. He ordered some of his best marksmen
to rush up and single out the officers, which was executed in a
moment. Captain Conklin fell by a mortal wound, as did his
lower officers ; and the men being without an officer, save a
corporal, were soon routed ; eleven were killed, and more
wounded. Captain Innman, on the left, was not less successful.
He met Supple -\vith half his number, threw himself into a
barn he was obliged to pass, killed six of his men, woimded
him, and obliged him to retire. Tlie colonel and captain then
uniting, j^ushed after the enemy, and took several prisoners ;
but having boats ready, they crossed the river, and made good
their retreat to Savannah, where all the officers of the party
have since died of their wounds. Colonel Twiggs, upon this
occasion, had but one man wounded, who is since well.

It is by such exertions that Georgia has hitherto maintained
her independence. And if these actions are not great, they
are at least brilliant. JSTor can we fear that men of such gal-
lantry and good conduct will ever be destroyed by a few cow-
ardly Tories.'

July 1. — ^The Gazette of to-day contains the following
" Sentiments of a Lady in JVew Jersey: " — ^Tlie Sentiments of a
war carried on by the British nation against my woman,
native country, cannot fail to excite in the humane and vir-

' Pennsylvania Packet, August 1.

29-t DIAEY OF THE EETOLTJTIOX. [1780.

tiious mind sentiments very unfavorable to the authors and
instruments of such a variety of complicated evils and mis-
fortunes as we have suffered in the course of it.

The contest began on their part without principle — has
been prosecuted without humanity. Devoid of those senti-
ments and that conduct which do so much honor to the civil-
ized nations of Europe, even in the time of war, they have
thrown off all restraint, and fully displayed, in their military
operations in this part of the world, the true characteristics of
tlieir country — a fierce and barbarous spirit, resisting, contrary
to the common rule, the ordinary effects which refinement
of manners and a high degree of polish usually have on the
minds of men in softening them to humanity, constitutes their
real character.

Were I unconnected with Americans by ties of friendship
or blood, — were I not attached by that love of one's coiintry
which is inherent in some degree in every breast, and partakes
of the nature of that instinctive affection which we bear to our
parents and kindred, were I situated in a distant part of the
world, unagitated by the incidents of the day, which are the
more interesting the nigher we are to the scene of war, the
bare recital of their vmjust claims, their cruelties, and their
crimes, would fill my soul with horror, and I should regard
them not only as unprovoked aggressors, but as enemies by
principle and example to mankind in general.

But as if it were not cnougli unjustly to spill the blood of
our countrjTuen, to lay waste the fields, to destroy our dwell-
ings, and even the houses consecrated and set apart for the
worship of the Supreme Being, they have desolated the aged
and unprotected, and even waged war against oiir sex. "Wlio
that has heard of the burning of Charlestown, in New England
■ — of the wanton destniction of Norfolk and Ealmouth — of
their wasting the fine improvements in the environs of Phila-
delphia— of the tragical death of Miss M'Crea, torn from her
house, murdered and scalped by a band of savages hired and
set on by British emissaries — of the melancholy fate of Mrs.
Caldwell, put to death in her own house in the late incursion
of the enemy, and tlie general havoc which at tliis time marks

1780.] SENTIMENTS OF A NEW JERSEY AVOMAN. 295

their footsteps in tlielr route tlirongli a part of this State — but
would wish to avert from themselves, their kindred, their prop-
erty, and their country in general, so heavy misfortunes.

These are truths sufficiently aflecting to touch with pity
and compassion even hearts hard as marble, and cannot fail to
make a deep and lasting impression in the minds of all.

These feelings and these sentiments have been particularly
manifested by the ladies of Philadelphia in their liberal con-
tributions of money towards rendering the situation of the sol-
diery of the Continental army more convenient and comforta-
ble. It is to this class of men we more immediately owe our
defence and protection ; they have borne the weight of the
war, and met danger in every quarter ; and what is higher
praise, they have with Koman courage and j)erseverance suf-
fered the extremes of heat and cold, the attacks of hunger, and
the pain of long and fatiguing marches through parts before
imexplored by armies, and Avhich had scarcely ever before
borne the print of human feet.

It Avas enough for these brave men to reflect they were en-
gaged in the best and most glorious of all causes — that of de-
fending the rights and liberties of their country — to induce
them to behave with so much resoliition and fortitude. Tlieir
many suiferings so cheerfully undergone, highly merit our
gratitude and sincere thanks, and claim all the assistance we
can afford their distresses. If we have it not in our power to
do from the double motive of religion and a love of liberty
what some ladies of the highest rank in the Court of France
every day perform from motives of religion only, in the hos-
pitals of the sick and diseased, let us animate one another to
contribute from our purses in proportion to our circumstances to-
wards the support and comfort of the brave men who are fight-
ing and suffering for us on the field. We ought to do this if we
desire to keep the enemy from onv borders — if we wish that there
may not be occasion to call forth our husbands, our children,
and our dearest friends, to risk their lives again in our defence.
I can truly say that I have experienced the most heart-rending
anxieties when my friends and relations have been called upon
as free citizens to march against the enemy ; and the pangs I

296 DIAKT OF THE EEVOLDTION. [1780.

have suffered on sucli occasions liave made it easy for me to
give credit to the account we have in the history of ancient
Eome, of the two matrons who died for joy, one at the gate of
the city, the other at her own house, at the sight of their sons,
who returned in safety after the battle at the Lake of Tlirasy-
niene. "When I say this, I mean only to express the feelings
of a woman, my sentiments being ever in favor of that spirit
.which my countrymen have so often manifested when their
services have been required.'

July 4. — ^The ladies of Trenton, in New Jersey, emulating

the noble example of their patriotic sisters of Pennsylvania,'

and being desirous of manifesting their zeal in

Patriotic "Women. , , . o a • ?•! i •

the glorious cause ot American liberty, having
assembled this day for the purpose of promoting a subscrip-
tion for the I'elief and encouragement of those brave men in
the Continental army, who, stimulated by example, and re-
gardless of danger, have so repeatedly suffered, fought, and
bled in the cause of virtue and their oppressed country ; and
taking into consideration the scattered situation of the well
disposed tlirough the State, who would wisli to contribute to
so laudable an undertaking, have, for the convenience of such,
and the more effectually to carry their scheme into execution,
unanimously appointed Mrs. Cox, Mrs. Dickinson, Mrs. Fur-
man, and Miss Cadwallader a committee, whose duty it shall
be immediately to 02>en subscriptions, and to correspond with
the ladies hereafter named, of the different counties through-

' New Jersey Gazette, July 12.

' An officer, in a letter froin the American camp, dated June 29, says : — " The
patriotism of the women of Philadelphia is a subject of conversation with the
army. Had I poetic genius, I would sit down and write an ode in praise of it.
Burgoyne, who, on his iirst appointment to America, boasted that ho would dance
with the ladies and coax the men into submission, must now have a better under-
standing of the good sense and public spirit of our females, as ho has already had
of the fortitude and inflexible temper of our heroes. We do not suppose that these
contributions can be any stable support to the campaign for any length of time ;
but, as it is a mark of respect to the army, it has given particular satisfiiction, and
it may be a great temporary service. Nothing has been more discouraging for
some time past, than to believe that we were neglected, or almost lost from the
remembrance of our fellow-citizens." — Pennsylvania Packet, July 8.

1780.] PATRIOTIC WOMEN. 297

out the State, requesting tlieir aid and influence in tlie several
districts. And in order tlie more expeditiously to carry their
sclieme into execiition, the ladies now met have taken the lib-
erty to solicit the interest of the following ladies, in promoting
the said subscriptions, viz. : For the County of Hunterdon, Mrs.
(Vice-President) Stevens, Mrs. (Judge) Smith, Mrs. (Charles)
Coxe, Mrs. E. Stevens, Mrs. Hanna, Mrs. T. Lowrey, Mrs. J.
Sexton, Mrs. B. Van Cleve, Mrs. (Colonel) Berry, Mrs. (Doc-
tor) Burnet ; County of Sussex, Mrs. (Counsellor) Ogden, Mrs.
(Colonel) Tliomson, Mrs. (Major) Hoops, Mrs. T. Anderson ;
County of Bergen, Mrs. (Colonel) Dey, Mrs. Fell, Mrs. Kuy-
per, Mrs. Erskine, Mrs. (Major) Dey ; County of Morris, Mrs.
(Counsellor) Condict, Mrs. (Parson) Jones, Mrs. (Colonel) Kem-
sen, Mrs. Vanzant, Mrs. Carmichael, Mrs. (Colonel) Cook, Mrs.
Faesch; County of Essex, Mrs. (Governor) Livingston, Mrs.
C. Camp, Mrs. (Doctor) Burnet, Mrs. (Elisha) Boudinot, Mrs.
HornbloAver ; County of Middlesex, Mrs. Neilson, Mrs. (Coun-
sellor) Deare, Mrs. (George) Morgan, Mrs. (Colonel) Neilson,
Mrs. Neilson, Mrs. (Daniel) Marsh ; County of Monmouth,
Mrs. (General) Forman, Mrs. (Colonel) Scudder, Mrs. Newelh
Mrs. (Peter) Foreman, Mrs. (Jacob) Wickoff, Mrs. (Peter)
Covenhoven ; County of Burlington, Mrs. (Colonel) Cox, Mrs.
(Counsellor) Tallman, Mrs. (Colonel) Borden, Mrs. (Secretary)
Eeed, Mrs. (Captain) Keed ; County of Somerset, Lady Stir-
ling, Mrs. (General) Morris, Mrs. (Colonel) Martin, Mrs. (At-
torney-General) Pattison, Mrs. K. Stockton ; County of Glou-
cester, Mrs. (Colonel) Clark, Mrs. (Colonel) Wescott, Mrs. (Col-
onel) Ellis, Mrs. (Colonel) Hugg, Mrs. Bloomfield ; County of
Salem, Mrs. (Colonel) Dick, Mrs. Mayhew, Mrs. Taggart ; Coun-
ty of Cumberland, Mrs. (Counsellor) Buck, Mrs. Harris, Mrs.
Elmer, Mrs. Bowen, Mrs. Fitman ; County of Cape May, Mrs.
(Counsellor) Hand, Mrs. "VVliilden, Mrs. Townsend, Mrs. Hil-
dreth, whose Avell-known patriotism leaves no room to doubt
of their best exertions in the promotion of an undertaking so
humane and praiseworthy ; and that they will be happy in
forwarding the amount of their several collections, either with
or Avithout the names of the donors, which will be immediately
transmitted by Mrs. (Moore) Furman, who is hereby appointed

298 DIAET OF THE KEyOLUTIOIT. [1Y80.

Trcasiiress, to be disposed of by the commander-in-chief, agree-
able to the general plan.

As the ladies here TS'onld -wish to expedite the good work
as much as possible, they have appointed Miss Dagworthy of
Trenton, their Secretary, who will receive and answer all letters
that the ladies of the different counties may think proper to
favor her Avith on the occasion, and to furnish them proper
subscription papers as soon as possible.'

July 10.— On Tlinrsday last, (6th,) the brig Admiral Eod-
ney, of sixteen carriage-guns and eighty-three men, commanded
seaFi^htoff ^J Captain Daniel Moore, sailed from Sandy
New Jersey. jjqqJj. ^j^ ^ cruisc, and on Saturday, (8th,) in lat-
itude 39° 26', longitude 74°, fell in with a rebel brig, (sup-
posed to be the Kolker, of Philadelphia,) of sixteen guns, two
cohorns, and a tier of swivels, and full of men. At four
o'clock in the afternoon, a very close and furious engagement
commenced between them, and in about twenty minutes after
the action began, the gallant Captain Moore was mortally
wounded in the head by a swivel-shot, while issuing his orders
with that coolness and composure of mind which ever charac-
terize the brave, and, by his spirited condiict, exciting the
crew to follow so good an example. The action, wliich lasted
three glasses, was continued with great spirit by the officers
wlio succeeded to the command, and every individual on board
behaved with that intrepidity and valor which lias ever dis-
tinguished British seamen. So much justice should be done
the rebel crew as to say that, though in an infanious cause,
they did not exhibit any symptoms of cowardice imtil half-
past five o'clock ; when, after receiving a well-directed broad-
side from the Hodney, they uttered a dreadful scream, made
sail, and ran off.

The Eodney chased about an hour ; but totally disabled in
her rigging, her mainsail and boom overboard, and not a single
brace standing, she was reluctantly obliged to give over a vain
i:)ursuit and makg the best of her uay for New York, where she

' Pennsylvania Packet, July 8.

1780.] NATHANIEL FITZ RANDOLPH. 299

arrived the following CTeniiig. Captain Mooro expired at four
o'clock tins morning, to the inexpressible grief of his gallant
crew, and deservedly lamented by all wlio knew him. Tliis
last and melancholy proof was not wanting to evince his zeal
in the service of his King and coimtry. He had early taken an
active part towards tlie suppression of a rebellion which he
imiformly detested, and which, while he had life, ho was de-
termined to oppose. In a few words, it may with truth be
said, that he died as he had ever lived — a faithful subject, a
good citizen, an honest man.

His remains were interred this evening in the family vault
in Ti-inity church-yard, New York, attended by a numerous
and respectable company — the Marine Society — together with
the owners and officers of the brig ; and as many of the gallant
crew as could be spared ashore showed their respect to his
memory by attending the funeral.'

July 12. — A few days ago died, of the wounds he re-
ceived in nobly fighting in defence of his country, Nathaniel
Fitz Kandolph, Esq., late of Woodbridge, in Jer- Nathaniel
sey. This gentleman's zeal and activity, joined fs'^ K»'«i°ipi'-
with the most intrepid bravery, had long rendered him obnox-
ious to the vindictive rage and cruelty of a British enemy,
wlio has stained the pages of modern history with indelible
marks of inhuman barbarity and savage cruelty. Twice he
fell into their ruthless hands, and suffered all the tortures of
long confinement in the provost guard, at New York, from
whence he had lately been delivered.''

A French officer of Pulaski's corps, being asked the num-
ber of wounds he received in tlio American ser-

1 n » 1 rt-» T An Anecdote.

Vice, answered lourteen. Another officer standing

by observed he had too many. " No," replied the veteran,

" you surely will allow 07ie for the King of France." '

July 19. — ^Tms morning, the first and second Pennsylvania

' Game's Mercury, July 17. ' New Jersey Gazette, July 12.

° New Jersey Journal, August 9.

300 DIAET OF THE KEVOLTJTION. * [1780.

brigades, commanded by Brigadier-General "WajTie, marched
from tlieir respective encampments for the purpose of collect-
Wayne's Attack ing and bringins; off tliose cattle in Bergen coimtv,

on the! Bergen ° .,., ,,

Biock-uouse. JNew Jersey, immediately exposed to the enemy.
After executing the order, General Wayne, on his return,
visited a block-liouse in the vicinity of Bergen town, built
and garrisoned by a number of refugees, to prevent the disa-
greeable necessity of being forced into the British sea-service.
Tlie work was found jDroof against light artillery, Avhen a part
of the first and second Pennsylvania regiments were ordered
to attempt it by assault ; when, after forcing their way through
the abattis and pickets, a retreat was indispensably necessary,
there being no other entrance into the block-house but a sub-
terraneous passage, sufficient for one man to pass. The
American loss consists of sixty-nine, including three officers,
killed and wounded. Lieutenant Moody, and six of his party,
were taken on their return from an excursibn to 1

July 22. — A coeeespondent of the London Chronicle, of
this date, gives the following short sketch of the life and
English Notice character of General "Washington : — " As this gen-
of Washington, tleman always refused to accept of any pecuniary
appointment for his public services, no salary has been appointed
by Congress to his important command, and he only draws
weekly for the expenses of liis public table, and other necessary
demands.

" General Washington having never been in Europe, could
not possibly have seen much military service when the armies
of Britain were sent to subdue the Americans ; yet still, for
a variety of reasons, he was by much the most proper man on
the continent, and probably anywhere else, to be placed at
tlic head of an American army. Tlie very liigh estimation in
wliich he stood for integrity and honor, his engaging in the
cause of his country from sentiment, and conviction of her
wrongs, his moderation in politics, liis extensive property, and
his api^roved abilities as a commander, were motives which
necessarily obliged the choice of America to fall upon hun.

' Pennsylvania Packet, July 25.

1780.] ENGLISH NOTICE OF -WASHINGTON. 301

" That nature has given General Washington extraordinary
military talents, will hardly be controverted by his most bitter
enemies. Having been early actuated with a warm passion to
serve his country in the military line, he has greatly improved
his talents by imwearied industry, a close application to the
best writers upon, tactics, and by a more than common method
and exactness. In reality, when it comes to be considered that
at first he only headed a body of men entirely unacquainted
with military discipline or operations, somewhat ungovernable
in temper, and who, at best, could be only styled an alert and
good militia ; acting under very short enlistments, imclothed,
unaccoutred, and at all times very ill supplied with ammuni-
tion and artillery ; and that with such an army he withstood
the ravages and progress of near forty thousand veteran troops,
plentifully provided with every necessary article, commanded
by the bravest oificers in Europe, and supported by a very
powerful navy, which effectually prevented all movements by
water — when all this comes to be impartially considered, we
may venture to pronounce that General AYashington may be
regarded as one of the greatest military ornaments of the
present age.

" General Washington is now in the forty-eighth year of his
age. He is a tall, well-made man, rather large boned, and has a
tolerably genteel address, his features are manly and bold, his
eyes of a bluish cast, and very lively ; his hair a deep brown, his
face rather long, and marked with the small-pox ; his complexion
sun-burnt, and without much color, and his countenance sensi-
ble, composed, and thoughtful. There is a remarkable air of
dignity about him, with a striking degree of gracefulness ; he has
an excellent understanding, without much quickness ; is strictly
just, vigilant, and generous ; an afiectionate husband, a faithful
friend, a father to the deserving soldier, gentle in his manners, in
temper rather reserved ; a total stranger to religious prejudices,
which have so often excited Christians of one denomination to
cut the throats of those of another. In his morals he is irre-
proachable, and was never known to exceed the bounds of the
most rigid temperance. In a word, all his friends and acquaint-
ances universally allow, that no man ever united in his own

302 DIAEY OF THE EETOLUTION. [1780.

character a more perfect alliance of tlie virtues of the philoso-
pher with the talents of a general. Candor, sincerity, affa-
bility, and simplicity, seem to be the striking features of his
character, iintil an occasion offers of displaying the most de-
termined bravery and independence of spirit." '

' Kow Jersey Gazette, December 6.

CHAPTEE VIII.

Attgitst 1. — Aegtjments at this period of the -war to pro\'e
the justice of our caiise, or the importance of the controversy,
-would be iiseless, naj, would be insults to our
understandings. But our successes in arms and in
gaining the powerful alliances of foreign nations, have lulled
us into a dangerous security. We neither want wisdom to
conduct, nor courage to finish, what we have carried so far
with unequalled reputation. But as the bravest minds are the
most tender and gentle, o^ir soft feelings have betrayed us too
soon into a forgiving indolence, and led us to hope that the
war may be finished without those vigorous exertions which
may prove bloody to us, and must end in the total destruction
of our enemies. Save Britain ! has been the common cry. It
was our own. The Britons have schooled us out of our error,
and taught us that we must entirely put out the flame, or lose
the building.

Britain hath long seen that the conquest of America, by
force alone, is impracticable. She has therefore had recourse
to stratagems, by which she hopes to gain an accommodation,
if not a victory ; an accommodation that will give such
power to neutrals and Tories as will gain a slower, but not less
certain, nor less fatal, victoiy in the end. To accomplish this
she has too well succeeded in depreciating our money, by her
emissaries both without and within our lines and coimcils. But
she can never accomplish her design imless our zeal and vigor
are depreciated with our money. This is now attempted by
various means. Some they endeavor to crush by making

304 DIAEY OF THE EEVOLTJTION. [1780.

rapid excursions and cruelly and totally divesting them of
their projjerty ; others are stolen from their beds into captiv-
ity ; others are allui'ed by hopes and fears, to trade and parole
submission. By thus gradually removing from the lines such
spirits as they cannot tame, and enlarging their connections
among the meaner sort, they hope gradually to make their way
into the country. We are, therefore, often told by their abet-
tors that they can go where they please, and take whom they
will. One to save his house will declare, " That no rebel gun
was ever iired from behind it ; " another to save his person,
seeks a parole, or refuses to take any active part. The calam-
ities of war are held up in magnified prospects on the one
hand, and the mild terms offered by the enemy more falsely
trumpeted upon the other. The most horrid murders, and
other barbarities committed by them, are attributed to acci-
dent, or the error of some irresponsible individual. And from
Lord ITortli downward, they are all declaring they do not
mean to injure America, but to watch the favorable movement
of the war to give the Americans peace and order. Tliat all
their barbarity in the field, the destruction of our prop-
erty, and the far more cruelly slow murders of thousands in
their prisons, is only designed for our good, and to prepare us
for the olive branch. By such pretensions some are imposed
upon, and by the same, our public danger is increased. Yet
how little reason there is for the imposition, reflection will
soon convince.

The death of our paper currency and the fall of Charleston
(S. C.) happening near together, flushed the hopes of the Brit-
ish, and, in their opinions, gained them the point M-hich Lord
North deemed proper for extending the olive branch. But
what was their conduct ? In the south, their cruelty, and the
high demands of Clinton's proclamations, were suflicient to
draw the pale ghosts from the graves of their former fears,
resolved to check the tyrant or deliver themselves by an hon-
orable death in arms. And amongst us their barbarities rose
with their hopes, till they have proved to us, by the strong
language of plunder, flames, and murder, that they only
waited for power wholly to desolate the friends of liberty.

1Y80.] A WOED TO THE AMEEICAXS. 305

Our dwelling-lioiises and temples in flames before oxir eyes ;
the aged, the ■widow, the fatherless, insulted, beaten, and plun-
dered without pity, are argiimeuts we understand and feel.
And oh ! that unequalled act of guilt and cruelty ! We can-
not forget it, nor are we willing it should be forgotten. De-
fended by every personal charm ; protected by a complete
collection of the softest and most charming virtues ; guarded
by a sucking infant and a large family of depending babes,
and who, sitting still in her own house, might thereby claim,
at least, life from the enemy in whose power she had put hers ;
— yet she' falls by the deliberate aim of an instigated soldier !
What then can we expect if fully in their power ? Some of the
enemy affect to say her death was accidental. Tliere is suffi-
cient proof to the contrary. But suppose some of the enemy
thought so, did they show one mark of grief, pity, or human-
ity ? Did one officer, or one soldier, protect the corpse, or save
any property for the bereaved babes ? Not one ; General
Eobertson's wagon was brought to the door, and loaded by
his own servants with the beds and family goods. General
Skinner' knew the lady and her family. He had many years
pleaded at the bar where her father was judge — ^long sat a fel-
low-member with him in the legislature ; but the plunder of
the house was more in his eyes than the murdered person of
his old friend's daughter. And her corpse, which was in part
stripped, must have been consumed in the flames had it not
been for the humanity of some persons who were not of the*
army.

The enemy have also insulted our understanding by assign-
ing as a reason why they burned our houses that we fired out of
them. Had it been convenient to have used our houses as forts,
we should have been justified in it, and could the enemy have
fired them at that time, they would also have been justified.
But after they were not, and could not again be used for that
purpose, the reason for burning ceases. But the whole story
is false in fact. We know but of one house out of which a
gun was fired at the Connecticut Farms or Springfield. If

» Mrs. Caldwell. '■' See Vol. I., p. 396.

Vol. n.— 20

306 DIAKY OF THE EEVOLTJTION. [1780.

there are any more instances they are very fevr. And did not
the enemy avail themselves of our houses in Elizabethtown
while they lay in it, and fire upon lis out of the windows ?

From every view, then, of the enemy's conduct, it is evi-
dent we have nothing to expect from them but the effects of
pride and malice heightened by resistance. Many may now
be flattered by them, and a few villains may be finally pro-
tected to answer their purposes. But if they could conquer
this country for the present, they could not hold the conquest
without crushing us. That necessity will favor their disposi-
tions to prosecute the object. As a warning, we give an ex-
tract, which is genuine, from the Journal of a principal ofiicer
of their own when speaking of a number of persons of con-
siderable note who came into General Howe, from Philadel-
phia. He says, " They are all very politely received for the
present, but their several characters are particularly known to
the general, and a day of reckoning is to come hereafter."

In these circumstances, Divine Providence is rousing to
action by the most favorable prospects, our allies are gaining
the superiority by sea in the different quarters of the globe,
and at the same time have sent a veiy powerful aid to us. Tlie
remains of this campaign are big with important events. The
danger and expense of one liberal supply, of one vigorous
eftbrt, will be much less than a lingering war. While in the
one case our success is morally certain, and in the other doubt-
•ful. House then all at once to action, and flash the final shock
upon all those who disgrace humanity. Nay, humanity cannot
live till they are dead. Give the necessary supjflies, with your
personal services. We shall either gain an honored death or
secure a fine coimtry in circumstances more advantageous to
posterity than our fathers found it at first, even if we lose our
movable property. Let us free ourselves from the hope of
reunion with such men.

The Tories are now returning to their original — horse
thieves, night robbers, and murderers. They are banding
themselves together for the execution of their plan. Rise, then,
to extirpate those wretches, root and branch, from this conti-
nent, which was given to freemen ! The late militia law is

1780.] -WILLIAJI LIvmGSTON. 307

favorable beyond otliers to us who only deserve the country
because we fight for it. And as the Government is fully in
our own power, we need nothing but watchful zeal to have all
our own. Look back on what we have done and gained, and
also consider what we have at stake. Let not the want of
a last brave effort sacrifice the whole. Do not so much as
please the tories' ears by a groan under the complicated diffi-
culties we have to struggle with. Tlie greater they are, the
more honor we shall gain by cheerfully surmounting them.
In a future day we sliall enjoy pleasing reflections, and feel
rich, in proportion to the losses we have sustained in preserv-
ing our country. He that has lost nothing will not dare to be
seen amongst freemen. Let aff'ection, strengthened by sufi'er-
ing, fears roused by dangers, and fortitude supported by tlje
greatest prospects, unite and invigorate the gi'and struggle, that
we may soon be in full liberty and peace, each enjoying all that
is contained in the character of A Citizen.^

August 2. — Ensign Moonv, a refugee from Sussex to the
British army, who was lately sent from New York with a
party of ruffians for the piirpose of burnins; Sussex

^ /. T e^T- • ^- >i Ensign Moody.

gaol, m J ersey, ot takmg, or assassmatmg (govern-
or Livingston, and the persons who were active in apprehend-
ing the three spies lately executed, and of enlisting the inhab-
itants in the service of the British tyrant, has been captured
by the vigorous exertions of Captain Lawrence, of the ISTew
York State levies, near the English neigliborhood. Tlie in-
structions found upon Moody, in order to give the better color
to his private directions for enlisting and assassinating, and to
prevent his being treated as a spy from the military style, that
he was to produce, in case of his being taken prisoner, are in
the following terms :

Head Quarters, May lOtTi, New Torh, 1780.
SiE, — You are hereby directed and authorized to proceed
without loss of time with a small detachment into the Jerseys
by the most convenient route, in order to carry off the person

' New Jersey Journal, August 2.

308 DIAET OF THE EETOLUTION. [1780.

of Governor Livingston, or any other acting in public station
whom yon may fall in with in the course of yoiir march, or
any person whom you may meet with, and whom it may be
necessary to secure for your own security, and that of the
party under your command. Should you succeed in taking
Governor Livingston, you are to treat him according to his
station, as far as lies in your power ; nor are you, lipon any
account, to offer any violence to his person. You will use
you]" endeavors to get possession of his papers, which you will
take care of, and upon your return, deliver at Head-Quarters.

By order of his Excellency, Lieut.-Gcnl. Knyphansen.

Geo. BECKAvrrn, Aide-de-Camp.

Ensign Moody, \st Battalion,
New Jersey Volunteers.

It is said that all of Moody's party, except one, (who, attempt-
ing to swim the North River in his flight, and is supposed to be
drowned,) have either been captured or killed by the activity
of the Jerseymen ; and as to the famous or infamous ensign
himself, the great taker of governors, and general gaol-deliv-
erer of Sussex, he is at present safely lodged at West Point ;
and if he has justice done him, it is generally supposed, as our
correspondent observes, that he will be hanged for a spy, for
enlisting American citizens in the British army, and coming
with a party so small as nuie, and with weapons concealed,
either of which are, according to the present constmction of
all the nations in Em-ope, characteristic of a spy.

It is reported that another party was sent from Staten Isl-
and last week for the express pui-pose of assassmating his ex-
cellency tlie governor. Ought not such bloody measures be
retaliated upon the enemy ? '

August 5. — Certain intelligence having been received that
Clinton had embarked the principal part of his force, at New

Clinton at York, and had proceeded to Huntington Bay, on his
Huntington Bay. ^^.^^ ^^ Ehodc Island, to make a combined attack
on the fleet and army of our allies now there, his Excellency

' New Jersey Journal, August 2.

17S0.] AXECDOTE OF THE KING OF PKrSSIA. 309

General "Washington marched from his camp at Prackncss in
Jersey, the 29th of July, and crossed the North Eiver on the
31st, when a junction was formed with the troops under the
command of Major-General Howe. His excellency had re-
solved, in case the enemy should continue their course to
Rhode Island, to march immediately to New York and attack
it. All the necessary preparations were made for this purpose,
when intelligence arrived that the enemy had put back. It is
to be regretted that they did not go on with their intended
expedition, as our allies were well prepared to receive them,
and they could have met with nothing but disgrace and defeat
in that quarter ; while in this we had every reason to expect,
from the number and spii-it of our troops, the most decisive
and glorious success. Sir Henry no doubt relinquished his
project, in consequence of this movement of our anny ; and
it must be confessed that he abandoned it with much more
prudence than he undertook it. The object for which the army
crossed the river having ceased, the whole recrossed yesterday,
and are marching towards Dobb's Ferry, in prosecution of the
original plan formed for the campaign. Tlie following are the
vessels that composed Admiral Graves' squadron, viz. : the
London, Bedford, Royal Oak, Prudent, America, and Shrews-
bury, with the Amphitrite frigate.'

AuGCST 9. — ^The King of Prussia not long since presented
his Excellency General "Washington with the picture of his
majesty taken to the life, inscribed imder, " From Anecdote of the
the oldest general in Europe, to the greatest gen- King of Prussia.
oral on earth." A celebrated general of his majesty's, (over
whom conquest never gained dominion,) on viewing the in-
scription, asks, " Why does he stand higher in the annals of
fame than myself? " " Consider," replied this illustrious artist
in the science of war, " You never fought but at the head of
troops in number, discipline, bravery, ardor, and full of hopes,
vieing \vith any commander ; but this noble chief has encoun-
tered every embarrassment, and by his united abilities, (com-

' Pennsylvania Packet, August 15.

310 DIAEY OF THE REVOLUTION. [1780.

plete to constitate tlie general indeed,) has snrmonnted untold
difficulties; and tlierebyjnstly stands entitled to such laurels
as conquest, fame, and magnanimity can only give." '

August 16. — Eauly this morning the advanced parties of
the British under Cornwallis, and the Americans under Gen-
eral Gates, met in the woods near Camden. The
' result is not altogether known, but from every
quarter we hear of the total rout of Gates and his ragamuf-
fins.^ A correspondent at Salisbury, in ISTortli Carolina, gives
the following accoimt of Gates's defeat, together with a sketch
of the movements of the American army during the few days
preceding the battle : " It is natural for mankind, who have
lost their country and property, to be too anxious in their pur-
suits to regain them, and while they partially grasp at the
shadow, lose the substance. Men of this complexion, con-
stantly surroimding the commander-in-chief, lessening his diffi-
culties, the number of the enemy, and pointing out the cer-
tainty of success, excite measures which in the event become
fatal. We marched from Hillsborough about the 1st of July,
without an oimce of provision being laid in at any one point,
often fasting for several days together, and subsisting fre-
quently upon green apples and peaches ; sometimes by detach-
ing parties, we thought ourselves feasted, when by violence
they seized a little fresh beef, and cut, threshed out, and
ground a little wheat ; yet, imder all these difficulties, we had
to press forward.

"Just before, and on the arrival of General Gates, both he
and the Baron De Kalb seemed disposed to give the army a
little respite, but General Caswell, with the North Carolina
militia, having moved over the Pedee, we were obliged to make
a six days' hard march, before we could form a junction with
him ; tliis effected, our march was rapidly continued for six
days longer, when we arrived at Clermont, within thirteen
miles of Camden, on the 13th instant.

" Our supplies here began to come in more amply, and had

' New Jersey Jourual, August 9. - Andrew Helm to 1'. Van Scliaak.

ITSO.] BATTLE OF CAMDEN. 311

Tce -R-aited a few days, onr forces mnst have been considerably
angmented, -which Avould have enabled ns to have harassed the
enemy, and in a great measure cvit oif their resoi;rces ; this
must have effected onr purpose in the event without risking a
general engagement, the last step in my opinion to be taken,
where so much was to be risked. "We were ordered down on
the evening of the 15th to attack the enemy, and General
Sumpter was to proceed down to the ferry opposite to Cam-
den, to create a diversion in that quarter, to facilitate our mak-
ing an impression on Camden. Here the British had collected
their whole force, and gaining intelligence of our position, moved
out at nine o'clock in the evening to meet us ; forming an am-
buscade on the road, they surprised us about one o'clock in the
moniing on our march. Our advanced and flanking parties
endeavored to resist the shock, but were broken, and this threw
the continental brigades into disorder ; but they rallying im-
mediately, advanced, engaged and forced the enemy to give
way in turn ; this gave respite to the troops to form, and so
we remained in anxious expectation till near daybreak, noth-
ing material occurring, but partial firings from the advanced
and reconnoitring parties of each army, when the general
ordered the first Maryland brigade to form a corps de reserve,
about two hundred yards in the rear of the centre of the line ;
this was immediately eftected, and the troops rested upon their
arms till a little after daybreak, when the action recommenced.
" The attack was made by Lord Comwallis from the right
and centre, on the centre and left wing of the front line of the
Americans, which was altogether composed of militia, who
upon the first fire gave way, and were pursued by the British.
Tliis threw the corps de reserve into disorder ; but they rally-
ing immediately under a very hot fire, charged the British so
warmly, that they entirely broke their centre. By this time
the fire commenced very hot on the right, where the second
Maryland brigade behaved with great gallantry and firnmess,
but the enemy's line of regular troops being far more extensive
on the right than the Americans on the left, after the militia
had given way, exposed the left flank and rear of the first bri-
gade, notwithstanding which they manfully maintained their

312 DIAIiY OF THE EEVOLUTIOX. [1780.

ground, till the left wing was ordered to retreat to a point in
Adew, about eiglity yards in the rear, at the extremity of the
flanking party. Here it instantly fonned, renewed, and con-
tinued the attack with great vigor ; but being again hard
pressed in front, flank, and rear, retreated a second time,
formed, and disputed the ground with great obstinacy, till,
borne down by numbers, they were obliged generally to re-
treat. At this time the second brigade, which before had not
been so hard pressed, was also borne down by superior num-
bers, after behaving with the greatest firmness and bravery.
The retreat now became general, and the militia by this time
had got six or eight miles in the rear, some of whom, together
with our camp women, wagoners, and some scattering light
horse, plundered all our baggage.

" General Smallwood endeavored to cover the retreat, and is
collecting the remains of our scattered troops, for which pur-
pose he has established posts at Salisbury and Charlotte, and
has prevailed on a considerable body, not less than one thou-
sand volunteers, to make a stand at Charlotte.' The British
loss hath been much more considerable than the Americans.
Lord Cornwallis, or some other British General, it is conjec-
tured, is amongst the slain. Notwithstanding this misfortune,
General Gates, whose head-quarters are at Hillsborough, is
collecting a force miTch superior to his late army, and appears
resolved to try the fortime of another day." ^

' New Jersey Journ.al, September 17th.

' reiinsvlvania Gazette, September C ; Kivington, in his Gazette of September
13, says: — "Instead of halting and collecting a force at Hillsborough, in North
Carolina, General Gates' flight was rapidly continued three days into Virginia, one
hundred and ninety miles from the field of action ; it was effected upon a cele-
brated horse, the son of Colonel Baylor's Fearnaught, own brother to his Grace
of Kingston's famous Careless, purchased of a general officer of the first distinc-
tion. All that Horatio Gates (after the defeat of his troops,) knew of the British
army and its noble commander, was, their having in a short time become pre-emi-
nently triumphant. Why, then, is it presumed to assert the loss of the British was
much more considerable than the Rebels, llr. Gates declares (concerning the great
field-day) that no part nf his army could be accounted for but himself, and an Aide-
de-Camp, his attendant.

" The following dish has been hashed and served up at Mr. Washington's
head-quarters : Imprimis — the killed, wounded, and prisoners taken of the Conli-

1780.] BATTLE OF CAimEN. 313

A British -writer gives the following relation of the rise
and progress of the continental army under the command of
General Gates, till the total defeat thereof, near Camden :

" So long ago as the end of March, or beginning of April
last, the continental regiments of Maryland, Delaware, and
Pennsylvania, consisting of about three thousand British Account
men, were detached from "Washington's array for Battle of camden.
South Carolina. Tlie excessive cold in the early part of their
march, and the inconveniences they suficred from the heat of
the weather latterly, had diminished their numbers by sickness
and desertion very considerably. After Gates was appointed
to the chief command, he sent Major-Gencral Baron De Ivalb
forward, while he remained in Vii'ginia, to invigorate the
measures necessary for augmenting his army. There he suc-
ceeded in procuring considerable reinforcements. Of the fif-
teen hundred he collected, one-half were the flower of their
young men, amongst whom was a corjjs of cadets, consisting
of one hundred and fifty gentlemen. He then pushed into
North Carolina, where he was joined by many recruits from
the prisoners tliat had made their escape from Charleston ; be-
sides these, a number of militia had been collected under Gen-
erals Caswell and Kutherford.

nenials amount to five hundred: but (as we have already predicted) no mention
is made of a single militia-mmi, or of the missing of the rebel army. Four hun-
dred hacigage wagons, laden with every necessary for an army, with a most com-
plete park, (including many of the artillery taken at Saratoga,) with six hundred
stand of arms and accoutrements for as many recruits, are part of the trophies.
Forty of the above-mentioned wagons had been taken from the British some time
before the action, by the rebel Colonel Sumpter, with a detachment of two or
three hundred Continentals, but Colonel Tarleton's cavalry falling in with Mr.
Sumpter, (who with his escort were amicsing themselves in a wood on a nutting
party,') the whole were retaken, after killing or securing most of the enemy's de-
tachment. We are assured from the rebel accounts, that the noljle commander
of the British troops had, from the latest advices, advanced a considerable way
into the province of North CaroUna, from which every happy event may be pre-
saged.

" Mr. Gates was, at the above disastrous crisis, in .an indifferent state of health,
his complaint a diarrhoea ; his person was disguised in the retreat. It Is said his
officers have certainly sent a request to the rebel board of war at Philadelphia,
desiring a court-martial may be held upon their commanding ofScer on the ever-
memorable but calamitous 16th of August."

314 DIAEV OF THE EEVOLUTION. [1780.

" Till the i-einforcements from Virginia under Gates should
arrive, notliing of consequence was attempted. De Ivalb was
joined by Colonel Sunipter and some other leading men from
South Carolina, and some hundred of militia who were anxioiis
to plunder the frontiers, in which they were gratified. Tliey
made several incursions, and even dared to attack some of the
posts occupied by the king's forces, m which, however, they
were constantly repulsed with considerable loss.

" On the Stli of August, the rebel army took post about six-
teen miles from Camden. Lord Kawdon, who commanded in the
absence of Lord Cornwallis, immediately called in all the out-
posts, and collected the whole force at that place. Lord Corn-
wallis having received information of Gates' advancing, set
out for the army the 11th, and on the 14th at night arrived at
head-quarters. It appears that his lordship determined imme-
diately to attack Gates. On the loth, at nine at night, the
army were ordered to parade, accoutred for action, at their
several alarm posts. Scarce an officer or soldier in the army
knew of an action being expected. About ten o'clock two of
Burgoyne's soldiers, who had enlisted in the rebel army, came
in to Lord Cornwallis, and informed him that Gates was rein-
forced by fifteen hundred militia the night before, under Gen-
eral Stevens from Virginia, and that the whole rebel army Avas
then in full march to attack his lordship. Notwithstanding
this, the original plan was still pursued, the army marched at
a little after ten, and at about two, greatly to the sui"prise of
the enemy, the advanced parties of both corps met ; a little
skirmish ensued, when each retreated to their respective
armies. By a kind of mutual consent, hostilities did not re-
commence till daylight, when a tremendous discharge of artil-
lery and musketry from the royal army, announced the com-
mencement of the most severe action that has happened in the
field during this rebellion.

" The firing was kept up with mutual briskness for near an
hour, when orders were given to charge. Twice it was at-
tempted in vain, from the contimied fire of the rebels ; they
at last attempted, in their turn, something like it, but the au-
dacity of the attempt proved fatal to them ; they fell into dis-

1780.] BATTLE OF CAMDEN. 315

order, -^vliicli gave the royal army an opportunity to close in
■\vitli tlio bayonet.

" Tarleton had now joined the flank, and advanced near the
enemy, who, in a few minutes, were totally routed, and the
field left to the royal army. The pursuit was more fatal to the
rebels than the action ; it continued for twenty miles with
unremitted ardor, the Avhole of which distance was strewed
with dead and woimded bodies. Upwards of one thousand
privates were killed in the battle and pursuit, and ninety
officers ; among them three generals. Near one thousand were
taken prisoners, great numbers of whom are badly wounded ;
their whole train of artillery, composed of nine brass field-
pieces, one hundred and fifty-six wagons, witli complete teams,
laden with many thousand stand of small arms, ammunition,
provisions, and camp equipage, grace the triumph of the vic-
tors. Of the royal army about three hundred privates were
killed and wounded, and twelve officers, though none of high
rank.

" Lord Cornwallis's whole force, including Tarleton's legion,
did not exceed twenty-four hundred, most of whom were in
a low state of health, which is the only reason that can be as-
cribed for Gates' meeting them in the open field, for it is noto-
rious that no other instance can be adduced during the whole
course of the wai-, of any of the rebel generals coming to fair
action with the royalists.

" About five hundred of Burgoyne's soldiers that had enlisted
in the rebel service, were in the action ; their superior disci-
pline and bravery rendered it so obstinate and bloody.

" Gates was so certain of victory, and of Burgoyning Lord
Cornwallis, as he termed it, that before the disposition was
made for attack, he posted two bodies of his army at some dis-
tance to the right and left of tlie British army, with orders to
close in iipon them and cut off tlieir retreat, while he in person
attacked them in front with the main army.

"TluTs are the two Southern provinces, by the kind interpo-
sition of Providence, happily saved from the miserable conse-
quences of this sudden, unexpected, and iaipending blow.
Bloody, dark, and deep plots and machinations were in eriibryo,

316, DIAET OF THE KEVOLUTION. [1780.

by obdurate rebels, in all quarters of the town and country,
ready to sjiring forth into action, -svlienever Gates should give
the decisive blow. Scenes of tyranny, robbery, jjersecution,
and distress, even unto death, more intolerable and abomina-
ble, if possible, than ever, would have instantly followed.
Cruel and relentless tyrants of the Congress and mankind,
were in greedy expectation, to satiate their unbounded malice
and resentment, and even imbue their wicked hands afresh in
the blood of the loyalists, and again to subject us to the ac-
cursed domination of the miso'eant Congress ; a system so
abhorredly infamous, as not to be equalled in any age or nation
under heaven." '

August 19. — ^The following extract of a letter from a cler-
gyman at New York, will convey a pretty lively idea of the
Affairs in joy which the British in that quarter must have
New Tori;, fgj^ g^^ -Q^^ news of Gatcs's defeat ; it contains
some other more important matter, Avhich those who feel
themselves concerned will do well to ponder upon : — " With
respect to politics, you know you have laid me under strong
injunctions to transmit you a faithful picture of them. I
shall therefore be all obedience ; though the shade will much
overpower the light in my description. Know then the storm
which hath long threatened us, hath at length covered us.
The French force has arrived in our neighborhood ; and to add
to its imjjression, our intelligence from the South is of much
the same color with that which, at short intervals, made its way
to us on the eve of the miserable event at Saratoga. Tlie
enemy imagine nothing but conquest, and God grant they
imagine a vain thing; but there is something else which sits
heavy at my heart. A lowering discontent prevails in our
lines, which sometimes breaks out into murmurs. I explained
to you some time ago the cause which began to generate these
ugly syinptoms. The great from whom countenance, honors,
and presentments come, ' Eemember not the former things,
neither consider the things of old.' They have shown an un-

■ Rivington's Gazette, January 3, 1781.

17S0.] ATFAIES IN NEW YOEK. 317

warrantable predilection for those whose hearts have ever been
known to be in the enemy's camp, and who, there is too good
ground to presume, are more occupied in inventing topics of
excuse of their present conduct to those on whom they think
fortune noio smiles, than in preparing cordials for those who
liavo run their course Mith honor and consistency ; and who
must meet the worst rage of the foe. I, you know, am no
party man. I add not one, therefore, to the number of mur-
murcrs. On the contrary, I exert my poor talents to assuage
the dangeroiis and increasing malady, but reason on the other
side too often reduces me to silence. I ventured to expostulate
with our friend S G , upon the injury which this tem-
per might do to the common cause ; who, in a rougher tone
than I had ever heard from him, desired me to reserve my ser-
mon for the pulpit. ' You, sir, (said he,) are by accident tol-
erably easy in your circumstances ; but before you enter upon

this subject again, fetch down to a level with me at least

and , who now soar so liigh above me in all their pride of

place. You know wliat I have been. Survey my present
apparel. I have a family. You saw my table to-day.' I

have been decided, so indeed have and — — : 'i-for, they

against, my .sovereign. I this moment eucoimtered 'two dark
Presbyterians in close consultation, debating, I suppose, upon
tlie properest arts to j^ractise for their profit, and elevation,
upon another change of sides ; though the fliTsh for recent
favors lavished upon them by the royal hand was yet warm
upon their cheeks. One of them, doubtless, hath laid his fin-
ger upon the ofiice of lieutenant-governor, and the other of
chief justice, if the rebel power prevail. Let them but attempt
it, and my word for it, their subtlety will dissolve every obsta-
cle in their way ; and perhaps the time is not very distant
when you and I shall hold up our hands before the latter for
high treason against the United States, and the former will
sign our warrants. You will call it policy perhaps which has
ordered things thus. I believe, indeed, it is partly owing to
the doctrine of the Florentine school ; but I am convinced,
that it is inore to be ascribed to the unfeelingncss of men, new
to power, who have thus trampled upon our services, and

318 DIAEY OF THE KEVOLUTION. [1780.

aifronted us. They have provided for their minions from con-
nection or caprice, after the fashion of their own conntry, and
returned from ns with scorn, to follow the pursuits of their
own pleasure, their interest, or their vanity ; but, howcA'er,
though I cannot always govern my own passion, I trust I shall
in the worst of times, behave like an honest man and a faith-
ful subject.' Judge, therefore, what I feel. "Would I had the

nerves of , whose letter goes under cover with this ; his

sjpirit rises in proportion to our difficulties ; and he overwhelms
any man who doubts the ability of Cornwallis to keep what he
has got, if he cannot yet penetrate further. It is his oj)inion
that "Washington's army of half-starved ragamuffins, who, in
the language of Job, ' Cut up mallows by the biishes, and
ji;niper roots for their meat,' will melt before us as the vapor
does before the sun ; and he is preparing a suitable sermon,
with the above verse for his text. Something, however, must
happen in a few days, in the South, I mean, to end our doubts.
To that quarter our eyes are more fixed than to what is rolling
to ourselves. May my next make amends for this." '

ArGTJST 31. — ^In the Hoyal Gazette Extraordinary of this
day, is published the following account of the different actions

Operations in "^^i^li have lately happened in South Carolina.

South Carolina. Lord Comwallis having received intelligence that
General Gates had arrived at Deep Creek, in ISTorth Carolina,
the twenty-fourth of July last, and taken upon him the com-
mand of the troops which had been collecting there since the
surrender of Charleston, and that he was putting them in
motion, set out for Camden on the evening of the tenth, and
arrived there early in the morning of the fourteenth instant.
General Gates had already penetrated into South Carolina, and
was advanced as far as Eugely's, about twelve miles distance
from Camden. His lordship having informed himself of the
strength and position of the rebels, resolved to attack them,
(although they had been joined on the fifteenth by about fifteen
hundred militia, under General Scott, from Virginia,) and accord-

ITpcott, vi. 89.

1780.] OPEEATIONS IN SOUTH CAROLINA. 319

ingly about ten in the evening of that day the army began their
march, and after they had proceeded about eight miles, the ad-
vanced guards of both jiarties fell in with each other, and a
skirmish ensued in which several were killed and woiinded on
both sides; Colonel Porterfield, of the rebels, had his leg
broken, and afterwards fell into oiu- hands, as also did an am-
munition wagon, which they left \ipon the field. From the
prisoners and deserters. Lord Cornwallis was informed that the
whole rebel army was upon the march to attack him. In order
to avoid the confusion of an action in the night, his lordship
halted on ground which was favorable for his small numbers,
and in the mean time took measures to oblige the rebels to
fight him on it. At daybreak in the morning, he formed his
army into one line with a reserve, and the cavalry behind the
reserve. The line consisted of two divisions ; that on the right
consisted of the light infantry, the twenty-third and thirty-third
regiments, under the command of Lieutenant- Colonel Webster ;
the left, the volunteers of L'eland, infantry of the legion, and
part of Colonel Hamilton's North Carolina corps, under Lord
Rawdon, with two six and two three-pounders ; the reserve
was composed of the seventy-first regiment, and two six-
pounders, to whom the cavalry was ordered to keep close ; the
North Carolina refugees and militia were directed to attend
to the rear, and a swamp upon the left.

About twenty minutes after day, finding the rebels formed
near him. Lord Cornwallis ordered their left to be attacked,
and the action soon became general. After a short conflict,
which was sustained about three-quarters of an hour, the
rebels were thrown into litter confusion, and gave way, when
they lost a great number of men; the cavalry were ordered
immediately to fall upon them, which they did with great
slaughter. The pursuit was continued for upwards of twenty-
two miles, and many men were killed in the course of it ; seven
pieces of brass cannon and all their ammunition were taken in
the field, and the baggage of their general officers, and all
their other baggage and camp equipage, were taken in the
pursuit by the cavalry, together with one brass field-piece,
the carriage of which was damaged in the skirmish in the

320 DIAEY OF THE KEYOLTJTION. [1780.

night, and, Tvitli the seven before mentioned, "was the "whole
they had "with thein. A General Gregory "was killed in the
field, and General De Kalb, "who is since dead of his "wounds,"
and General Eiitherford, "who is also "wounded, "were made pris-
oners. Up"wards of nine hundred officers and men "were killed
in the field, and in the j^ursuit, and about nine hundred were
prisoners, many of whom are wounded. The loss sustamed by
the royal army in killed and woimded, amounts to three him^
dred and twenty men, including ten officers, three of which
were killed, and two more dangerously wounded.

Some days before the action. General Sumpter was de-
tached over the AVateree Eiver, with twelve or fifteen hundred
men, to cut otf the communication between Lord Cornwallis
and Charleston, and the Congaree. lie fell in with, and
took several wagons which were bringing flour, &e., to the
Eritish army, together with their escort and some sick men.
On the morning of the seventeenth, Lieutenant-Colonel Tarle-

' Baron de Kalb, while exerting himself ivith great bravery to prevent the
defeat of the day, received eleven wounds. His aide-de-camp, Lieutenant-Colonel
du Buysson embraced him, announced his rank and nation to the surrounding foe,
and begged that they would spare his life. While he generously exposed himself
to save his friend, he received sundry dangerous wounds, and was taken prisoner.
The Baron expired in a short time, though he received the most particular assist-
ance from the British. He spent his last breath in dictating a letter, expressive of
the warmest affection for the officers and men of his division — of the greatest satis-
faction in tlie testimony given by the British army of the bravery of his troops —
of his being charmed with the firm opposition they made to superior force, when
abandoned Ijy the rest of the army — of the infinite pleasure he received from the
gallant behavior of the Delaware regiment, and the companies of artillery at-
tached to the brigades — and of the endearing sense he entertained of the merit
of the whole division he commanded. The Congress resolved on the fourteenth
of October following, that a monument should be erected to his memory in An-
napolis, the metropolis of Maryland, with a very honorable inscription. — Oordon,
iii., 105.

De Kalb was a Prussian by birth. He bore a commission in the French ser-
vice, and came to America three years ago with the llarquis de la Fayette, by
whom he was considered as a Mentor. While native Americans in the rebel
army were harassing and distressing the inhabitants wantonly and cruelly in North
and South Carolina, for their having submitted to the British army, it is said the
Baron constantly protected them, on the principle, that in Europe, particularly in
Germany, it was the practice not to distress the inhabitants more than the service
required. — Rivington's Gazette, January 3, 1781.

1780.] SUMTTEE DEFEATED. 321

ton was detaclied with the cavahy and light infantry of the
legion to attack liim. He condncted his march with so
iniicli skill that he surprised the Americans in the middle
of the day on the eighteenth, totally defeated them, killed
upwards of one hundred and fifty, took two pieces of brass
cannon, and three hundred prisoners ; he at the same time
retook the wagons which had been taken, and about one hun-
dred men who had been made prisoners, and also relieved one
hundred and fifty inhabitants who had been taken up by
Sumpter. The British loss on this occasion is six men killed,
including Captain Charles Campbell of the light infantry, and
eight or ten wounded.'

After the victory, it was discovered that amongst the pris-
oners there were some persons who had lately received protec-
tions and enrolled themselves in the militia, to serve under and
support his majesty's government, and one who was a prisoner
upon parole, notwithstanding which, they were taken fighting
on the part of the rebels. Two of them were hanged upon the
spot, and we hear that wherever such instances of perfidy and
treacheiy are discovered, they will constantly be punished
with the utmost severity. Two deserters from the royal army
were taken at the same time and executed in the same manner.

In marching the prisoners taken by Lord Cornwallis and
Colonel Tarleton, from Camden to Charleston, the first divi-
sion of them consisting of one hundred and fifty continentals,
escorted by a party of the sixty-third regiment, were met by
Colonel Marion, with one hundred and fifty or two hundred
militia. Our party were made prisoners, and those they
were conducting were rescued ; but it was an event so little
agreeable to them that within two days afterwards upwards of

' A writer in Cornwallis's army, in recording an account of this action, says :
" This morning we overtooli tlie rebel General Sumpter, fast asleep in his camp
on the Creek, near the ford of the Catawba. A few of the rebels made a stand,
but the greater part of them fled to the woods and hid themselves among the
brambles. The 'plunder' we have taken is almost all Squire Sumpter had, and as
we have the w-arbrobe of the army, it is probable the black flies and jiggers are
before this time troubling the epidermis of the rebel crew. The worst we wish
thera is that they may not be able to scratch." — Letter from Seth Wingard.
Vol. II.— 21

822 DIARY OF THE EEVOLUTION. ■ [17S0.

one-half of them came of their own accord to deliver them-
selves np ; and since that time the whole of them have sur-
rendered themselves either to Lord Cornwallis or our party on
this side of Santee ; nor were the rebels able to cany away
the party of the sixty-third, all of whom are since come in. So
the only consequence of the insmrection is the discovery of
the perjury and perfidy of a set of people, who, without hesi-
tation, have broken through engagements which are always
deemed so sacred and inviolable that the most severe punish-
ment for tlie breach of them is not only warranted but required
by the laws of nations and of arms. Tlie prisoners, especially
those called continentals, appear to be highly disgusted with,
and disati'ected to the cause they have been engaged in, and
which many of them were obliged to enter into by absolute
necessity, and the persecuting tyranny of a set of men who,
without the least remorse or scruple, see lumdreds every day
sacrificed to attain their wicked and ambitious purposes.'

SErTEMBEE 11. — Yesteeday mornuig, seventy-two men,
composed of new levies, refugees, and negroes, under tlie
Attack on Command of Liexitenants Josiah Parker and "Wil-
captainiiuddy. i^^^^ Hewlct, about an hour before day, attacked
the house of Captain Joshua Huddy, of Monmouth county,
New Jersey, in the following manner, viz. : staving the win-
dows to pieces, and ordering the damned rebels to turn out.
This awoke Captain Huddy, who, having two loaded guns at
hand, made use of them in a proper manner through the win-
dows ; and by the assistance of a girl, who carried him cart-
ridges and rammed, he interchanged his firing up and down
stairs, in such a manner, that the assailants took it for grant-
ed a small scouting party must be there ; by this means he
rejjulsed them, but on a consultation, they renewed the attack
again, and fired the house, which induced Captain Huddy, on
the entreaty of his wife and another woman, to capitulate on
honorable terms, which were granted, and he delivered himself
up a prisoner. On their entering the house, when they found

' Game's Mercury, September 25.

1780.] TREASON OF AENOLD. 323

none but himself had defended it, and their brave negro Tye,
(one of Lord Dunmore's crew) -wounded, it was with the greatest
difSculty he was prevented from being murdered. They broke
the honor they had pledged, by not leaving Captain Huddy
and his family a second change of clothes, and, after near two
hours were spent in taking this one man, they made a shame-
ful and silent retreat, loaded with disgrace. A short time
after, six militia men pursued them, and renewed the attack,
killing the refugee commander. After this they embarked in
their boats, and passing the gut between Sandy Hook and the
main, Ensign William Vincent, with sixteen of the State regi-
ment, Salem men, attacked them again. The first fire. Cap-
tain Huddy, their prisoner, was wounded, but is like to do well.
This threw them into such confusion, that they overset their
boats, four in number, and about twenty were killed and
drowned. This gave Captain Huddy an opportimity of at-
tempting to make his escape by swimming, which he with
uracil difBciilty accomplished. We had but one man slightly
wounded. Tliis account is taken from Captain Huddy himself.'

SEPTEnrBEE 26. — ^Teeason of the blackest dye was yesterday
discovered. General Arnold, who commanded at West Point,
lost to every sentiment of honor, of public and ^j^^ Treason of
private obligation, was about to deliver up that Amow.
important fort into the hands of the enemy. Such an event
must have given the American cause a deadly wound if not a
fatal stab. Happily the scheme was timely discovered to pre-
vent the fatal misfortune. The jjrovidential train of circum-
stances which led to it, affords the most convincing proofs
that the liberties of America are the object of divine protection.
At the same time the treason is so regretted, the General can-
not help congratulating the army on the happy discovery.

Our enemies, despairing of carrying their point by force,
are practising every base art to effect, by bribery and cor-
ruption, what they cannot accomplish in a manly way. Great
honor is due to the American army, that this is the first in-

•ania Packet, October 3.

324 DIAEY OF THE EEVOLUTIOK. [1780.

stance of treason of this Idnd, -where many \rere to be expected
from the nature of tlie dispute, and nothing is so high an orna-
ment to the characters of the American soldiers as their with-
standing all the arts and seductions of an insidious enemy.

Arnold the traitor has made his escape to the enemy, but
Mr. Andre, Adjutant-General to the British army, who came
out as a spy to negotiate the business, is our prisoner.

His Excellency the Commander-in-chief has arrived at
"West Point, from Hartford, and is now doubtless taking proper
steps to unravel fully so hellisli a plot.'

A gentleman at the American camp, in a letter dated Kob-
iuson's House, gives the following account of the discovery of
Arnold's plot : — " I make use of the present express to ac-
quaint you with a scene of villany which happened in this
quarter, A very singular combination of circumstances has
l^reserved to us West Point and its dependencies. General
Arnold, who was the commanding officer, has been bought
over to the interest of the enemy, and the place in a few days
must have become theirs. They had a part of their army in
readiness to act on this occasion, and could not have failed of
"teuccess from the concert of Arnold within the fort.

"Such was the situation of this important post,when a
providential event discovered the traitor. Major Andre, the
British Adjutant-General, a person of great talents, appears to
have been the principal actor with Arnold. In his return to
New York, after an interview with Arnold, he was stopped
near Tarrytown by a few militia, (notwithstanding a pass writ-
ten and signed by General Arnold, by which Andre was per-
mitted to proceed as a John Anderson,) and detained as a spy.
As they were conducting him to a party of continental troops,
he oifered them a large sum of money for his release, which
they rejected with as much virtue as Arnold received his
with baseness.

" The state of the garrison, arrangements for its defence in
case of attack, a coiincil of war, &c., were found on Andre, in
Arnold's own handwriting.

Extract from General Greene's orders tlie day after the detection of Andre,
published in the Pennsylvania Packet, October 10.

1780.] TEEASOX OF ARNOLD. 325

" Colonel Jameson, of the light dragoons, to wliom lie was
conveyed in the first instance, and before a detection of these
papers, despatched an acconnt to Arnold that he had a spy in
his care, and described him in such a manner, that Arnold
knew it to be Andre. His Excellency General Washington,
the Marquis de la Fayette, General Knox, and their aids, were
within a few miles of his quarters at this juncture. I had pre-
ceded them with a Major Shaw, to give notice of their com-
ing. Arnold, I think, must have received the advice while
we were present, as I observed an embarrassment, which I
could not at that time account for. Tlie approach of his Ex-
cellency left him but an instant to take measures for his own
safety, or it is likely he would have attempted that of Andre's,
and the matter might have remained in obscurity. lie or-
dered his barge, and passing King's Ferry as a flag boat, fell
down to the Yulture sloop of war, which lay below at a short
distance. In the mean time, an oflicer arrived with the papers
which were discovered, and a letter from Andre to his Excel-
lency, in which he endeavors to show tliat he did not come
under the character of a spy. Upon this Colonel Hamilton
and myself rode to King's Ferry, but he had before this gained
the enemy's vessel.

" We expect Andre here every minute. I lament Arnold's
escape, that we might have punished such a high piece of per-
fidiousness, and prevented the enemy from profiting by his
information. Andre has ventured daringly for the accom-
plishment of a great end ; fortunate for us his abilities failed
him, as it was on the point of being finished, and he must in
all human probability si^bmit to the fate of a common spy." '

Another correspondent says : " — " I doubt not you have
heard, ere this reaches you, of the most cursed plot ever formed
by man, for the seizing of the person of his Excellency Gen-
eral Washington, with his family, on their retiirn from the
eastward, which would have taken place on the night of the
25th instant, had it not been providentially discovered by the

' Penusylvania Packet, October 3.

' Extract of a letter from a gentleman at the camp, dated Tappan, Septem-
ber 28.

326 DIABY OF THE EEVOLUTION. [1780.

taking of a person who turns out to be Major Andre, Adjutant-
General to General Clinton, who, it seems, has been all through
our camp, disguised in the habit of a servant, and acted, when
in camp, as waiting man to one Joseph Smith, formerly of
New York, who lives near King's Ferr j. General Arnold was
the principal agent in caiTying on this diabolical scheme. I
shall endeavor, from the information received, to give you the
particulars, viz. :

" On the 25th of tliis instant, Colonel Andre was stopped
by three of the militia,' at or near Tarrytown, upon which he
produced General Arnold's pass, in the following words :
' Permit the bearer to pass all guards and outposts of the Con-
tinental army wheresoever posted.' Tlie pass being some-
what singular, the militia inidertook to detain him, notwith-
standing it was signed by General Arnold. "When Andre found
he could not prevail on them to pass him, he then offered
them one hundred guineas, and it is said, rose to four hundred
if they would dismiss him. This convinced them that he was a
person of consequence and a spy, upon which they pinioned
him and conducted him to one of their officers, who ordered him
stripped, and his boots being the first articles taken off, they
therein discovered a plan of the fortifications at West Point
and King's Ferry, and our encampment at this place. Unfortu-
nately for us, as they were searching Andre, a gentleman
passed by, who inquired who he was, and was answered by
the militia that he was a spy, and Adjutant-General of the
British army ; upon wliich tlie gentleman, pleased no doubt
with the intelligence, rode off to West Point, and acquainted
General Arnold with the same, not suspecting him to be con-
cerned in the affair. Arnold apprehending the whole matter
was discovered, immediately mounted his horse and rode to
the water side, where his barge lay ready to receive him, and
pushed off. Just at this instant his Excellenc}' appeared in
sight, and being acquainted with the taking of Andre, and
Ai-nold's sudden flight, Colonel Hamilton, one of his Excel-
lency's aids, was despatched to King's Ferry with all possible

' John Paulding, David Williams, and Isaac Van Wart.

1780.] AENOLD IN EFFIGY. 327

speed, ill hopes of stopping him, but the barge, rowed by eight
stout fellows, had passed by before the colonel's arrival ; and
he had the mortiiication to see the greatest villain on earth
go on board a vessel prepared for the reception of his Excel-
lency and family ; on board of which vessel Colonel Beverly
Robinson was, with a sufficient number of picked men, for
tlie purpose aforesaid.

" The plan M'as, to have surprised his Excellency and fam-
ily, with the Marquis de la Lafayette, in the dead time of the
night, in the above-mentioned Robinson's house, which was
the quarters of Arnold, and where his Excellency was to have
lodged that night, and Robinson was pitched upon to execute
it, as being best acquainted with the avenues leading thereto.
Had they succeeded, the garrison at West Point was next to
be given up." '

Septembek 30. — ^Tms afternoon the people of Philadelphia
and vicinity made a demonstration somewhat unfavorable to
the late commander at West Point, by carting ^^^^,^ .^ j.^,^
that notorious conspirator through the streets of "' Pwiadeiphia.
the city. The exhibition was as follows : — A stage raised on
the body of a cart, on which was an effigy of General Arnold
sitting ; this was dressed in regimentals, had two faces, em-
blematical of his traitorous conduct, a mask in his left hand,
and a letter in his right from Beelzebub, telling him that he
had done all tlie mischief he could do, and now he must' hang
himself.

At the back of the general was a figure of the Devil,
dressed in black robes, shaking a purse of money at the gen-
eral's left ear, and in his right hand a pitchfork, ready to drive
him into hell as the reward due for the many crimes which his
thirst for gold had made him commit.

In the front of the stage, and before General Arnold, was
placed a large lantern of transparent paper, with the conse-
quences of his crimes thus delineated, i. e. : On one part Gen-
eral Arnold on his knees before the Devil, Avho is pulling him

' Pennsylvania Packet, October S.

328 DIAET OF TIIE KEVOLUTION. [1780.

into the flames ; a label from the general's mouth with these
words, " My dear sir, I have served you faithfully ; " to which
the Devil replies, " And I'll reward you." On another side,
two figures hanguig, inscribed, " The Ti-aitor's Eeward," and
written underneath, "Tlie Adjutant-General of the British
Army, and Joe Smith ; the first hanged as a sjiy, and the
other as a traitor to his country." And on the front of the
lantern was written the following : — ■

" Majok-Geneeal Benedict Aenold, late Comhandek of
THE FoET "West Point. The ceime of this man is High Trea-
son.

" He has deserted the important post "West Point, on Hud-
son River, committed to his- charge by his Excellency the
Commander-in-chief, and has gone off to the enemy at Xew
York.

" His design to have given up this fortress to our enemies,
has been discovered by the goodness of the Omiiiscient Creator,
who has not only prevented him carrying it into execution,
but has thrown into our hands Andee, the adjutant-general of
their army, who was detected in the infamous character of a spy.

" The treachery of this ungrateful general is held up to pub-
lic view, for the exposition of infamy, and to proclaim with
joyful acclamation, another instance of the interposition of
bounteous Providence.

" The effigy of this ingrate is therefore hanged (for want of
his body) as a traitor to his native country, and a betrayer of
the laws of honor."

Tlie procession began about four o'clock in the following
order : — Several gentlemen mounted on horseback ; a line of
Continental officers ; sundry gentlemen in a line ; a guard of
the city infantry ; just before' the cart, drums and fifes playing
the Kogue's March ; guards on each side.

The procession was attended with a numerous concourse
of people, who after expressing their abhorrence of the treason
and the traitor, committed him to the flames, and left both the
effigy and the original to sink into ashes and oblivion.'

' Pennsylvania Packet, October 3.

1780.] BEELZEBLTJ TO AKNOLD. 329

A correspondent, in a letter to the printer of the Pennsyl-
vania Packet, referring to the foregoing, says : — " I was sorry
to see that in yoiu- last paper, giving an acconnt jjeeizebubto
of the funeral of Benedict Arnold, you take but General Arnold,
little notice of the letter written to him by his master. As I
am very curious of these original pieces, I took a copy of it,
and I beg you to publish it in your next :

" ' A letter from his Infernal Majesty Btjelatarea Beelze-
bub, to Alan Buzeael, commonly called Benedict Aenold, a
true cojiy of the original which he had in his hand before he
was burnt, in Philadelphia, September 30, 1Y80.

" ' Faithful Buzrael, — You remember that before we sent you
into the woi-ld to prepare the ruin of America, (the worthy
object of our indignation being by its situation capable of
more virtue than any country in the world,) we ordered you
to begin by great exertions of bravery, to gain the affections
of the inhabitants, and bestow on yourself their confidence and
their friendship. You succeeded very well in this business,
and you were even skilful enough to seduce and associate to
your operations some powerful citizens of their country, Avhom
we shall reward in time for their great achievements. We
assure you of our royal satisfaction in this particular, and we
are glad to see that you obtained the title of a general, in which
dignity you may be able to do more mischief than in any
other. But we cannot approve of the choice yoii made of
your face, which has something roguish in it, and does not
quite inspire all that confidence we expected. "We understand,
by some savages, both English and Americans, lately arrived
in our dominions, that Avhat they call the virtuous citizens of
America suspect you very much of being an enemy to their
country. "We see with great ablion-ence, that, notwithstand-
ing all your secret intrigues to ruin the country, the independ-
ence of America acquires every day more strength and
solidity ; their commerce is jlourishing more than ever, their
country affords them every kind of provisions, their patriotism
grows more and more invincible. We deplore with our friends
in England the good condition of their army, and the bravery
of their soldiers. Our kingdom trembles at the very name of

330 DIAKT OF THE REVOLUTION. [1780.

Wasliington, and we detest him as mueli as lie is adored by
liis coimtrymen. We expect that you will iind some effectual
means to deliver us from this powerful enemy, but particularly
to put an end, by a capital stroke, to all the pretensions of that
peojile, and we flatter ourselves that after their subjection they
will be in a few years as corrupted, as wicked, as cruel as
theii- mother country. We rely entirely upon your abilities,
but at the same time we reqiiire a prompt execution of our
orders : your aflectionate Kiiig, Beelzebub.' " '

OcTOBEE 1. — Yesteeday the board of general officers ap-
pointed by General Washington for the trial of the unfortu-
Anare Sentenced ^^^^6 Major Audro, haviug fully considered the
to be iiung. facts belongiQg to his case, reported that he " ought
to be considered as a spy from the enemy, and that agreeably
to the law and usage of nations, in then- opinion he ought to
suffer death." General Washington approved of this opinion,
and ordered the execution to take place this afternoon, but
owing to the arrival of a flag from the enemy, it is postponed
until to-morrow at noon.^

Tlie following is a copy of a letter from Major Andre to
his Excellency General Washington, received to-day :

" Sir : — Buoyed above the fear of death, by the conscious-
ness of a life spent in the pursuit of honor, and fully sensible
that it has at no time been stained by any action which, at
this serious moment, could give me remorse, I have to solicit
your Excellency, if there is any thing in my character which
excites your esteem, if aught in my circumstances can excite
you with compassion, that I may be permitted to die the death
of a soldier ; it is my last request, and I hope it will be grant-
ed. I have the honor to be, &c." '

OcTOBEE 2. — Aenold's conduct since he went to New
York, is a greater proof of his villany (if greater villany is

' Pennsylvania Packet, October T.

" Clift's Diary ; and MS. letter from Charles Wilson to Timothy Payne.

" New Jersey Journal, October 25.

1780.] EXECUTION OF ANDEE. 331

possible) than his late treason. At his an-ival with the British,
says a gentleman in the American anny, he had npwards of
fifty of our warmest friends in New York taken ^^^„,,, ^^

aces

Ne

np, and put into dungeons and other pi
of confinement. But there is a Providence attending the Tin-
happy friends to their country, that puts it out of his power to
injure tliem, other than imprisonment. Such was the precipi-
tate flight he made, to save his neck from the halter, that he
had no time to move oft' a single paper, or any other matter
which can be a testimony against those he would otherwise
ruin in person and estate.'

General Eobeetson, of the British army, came up yester-
day to Dobb's Ferry with a flag, which was soon dismissed, it
being of so trite a nature, viz., to entreat his Execution of
Excellency General Washington, at the request '^"'*''''-
of Sir Harry Clinton, to use lenity to Major Andre; it had
the eftect to respite him for some hours, as the flag did not
return till five o'clock, which was the hoiir fixed in general
orders for his execiition. This day at twelve o'clock it took
place, by hanging him by the neck. Perhaps no person (on
like occasion) ever suffered the ignominious death, that was
more regretted by officers and soldiers of every rank in our
army ; or did I ever see any person meet his fate with more
fortitude and equal conduct. "When he was ordered to mount
the wagon under the gallows, he replied : " He was ready to
die, but wished the mode to have been in some more eligible
way ; " preferring to be shot. After ho had opened his shirt
collar, fixed the rope, and tied the silk liandkerchief over his
eyes, he was asked by the officer commanding the troops, if he
wished to say any thing ? He replied : "I have said all I had
to say before, and have only to request the gentlemen present,
to bear testimony that I met death as a brave man." '

' Extract of a letter from the camp, Tappan, October 2. — Pcnnsyhania Packet,
October 10.

' He was dressed in full uniform, and after the execution his servant demanded
his clothing, which he received. Ilis body was buried near the gallows.

333 DIAKY OF TUE EEVOLUTION. [1780.

The flag mentioned to have come out with General Hobcrt-
£on, was received by General Greene and Colonel Hamilton ;
and what is cnrions, Arnold sent his resignation, Avitli desire
that General "Washington should forward it to Congress, with
an insolent letter, intimating he would never serve Congress any
more, nor need they exjject it. And, moreover, tliat if Major
Andre should be executed by order of General Washington,
that he would strike a blow on some of his friends on the con-
tinent, that should sufficiently retaliate for his loss to his
Prince. General Greene, when he read the letter, treated it
with contempt, and threw it on the ground before General
Robertson, that lie might return it to the traitor if he thought
proper. Tlie hanging of Major Andre, one of the most emi-
nent officers and polite men in the British army, and the second
life of Clinton, shoM's Ave are not deterred by great menaces,
but determined to extirpate our enemies one by one, until
peace shall be restored to our country.'

OcTOBEE 5. — ^DiED the second instant, at his house at Eing-
wood, Robert Erskine, F. R. S., and geographer to tlie army
Kobert Erskine ^^ ^^''^ United Statos, in the forty-sixth year of his
Died. j^gg . g^ iwiiw in Avhom were united the Christian
and the gentleman. His integrity and unbounded benevolence
have rendered his death a loss to the public, and a subject of
sincere regret to all his acquaintances. He made the laws of

' Pennsylvania Packet, October 10. General Arnold, as soon as ho heard of
the execution of Major Andre, struck with this daring act of Washington's, and
alarmed for the safety of a beautiful and affectionate wife and four fine cliildren
lie had left behind at West Point, wrote immediately the following laconic note to
the rebel commander :

" Sir, — The wanton execution of a gallant Britisli officer in cold blood, may
be only the prelude to further butcheries on tlie same ill-fated occasion. Neces-
sity compelled mo to leave behind mo in your camp, a wife and offspring, that are
endeared to me by every sacred tie. If any violence be offered to them, remem-
ber I will revenge their wrongs in a deluge of American blood !

" Yours, &c.,

"B. Arnold.
"New York, October 5, I'iSO.

"■His Excellency General Washington.''^
No answer was received to the above. — Upcolt, vi. C5.

1780.] SATAK AND AENOLD. 333

justice the invariable mle of liis conduct, and upon this prin-
ciple espoused tlie cause of America, in which lie served his
country with approbation and universal esteem.'

Geneeai. Aenold has been hung in efhgj, and burnt at
Boston, Providence, and other places in New England. Tlie
tigurc was committed to the flames in sight of the famous Elm
of Liberty in Providence, and several persons from the neigh-
boring towns assisted at the ceremony.^

SATAN AND ARNOLD.

Quoth Satan to Arnold, My worthy good fellow,

I love you much better than ever I did ;
You live like a prince, with Hal may get mellow,

But mind that you both do just what I bid.

Quoth Arnold to Satan, My friend do not doubt me,

I will strictly adhere to all your great views,
To you I'm devoted, with all things about nie,

You'll permit me, I hope, to die in my shoes.'

OcTOBEE 9.- — -"When avg sec a man Avho has formerly at-
tracted esteem, at once falling into the greatest contempt, and
becoming the opprobrium and shame of his country, we feel
a mixture of passions in striking him oif the list of honest men
to degrade him with the most infanious. Tlie good citizen is
ready to reproach himself for having misplaced his esteem, and
would fain strip the -wretch even of those qualities that had
the semblance of good and occasioned the error. It is thus
we regard Arnold, whose name must now go down to posterity
;vith the epithet traitoi'. We see the traitor Arnold in his deg-
radation and misery, deprived even of the honor of having
licen brave. But why should we contest this advantage?
Have not robbers and assassins who take from the passenger
his purse and his life ; have not incendiaries, parricides, and
traitors, a certain species of bravery ? We may leave, then, to

Pennsylvania Packet, October 2S. " Upcott, vi. 151.

Xew Jersey Gazette, November 1.

334 DliVET OF THE EEVOLUTION. [1780.

the traitor Arnold this quality, M-hieh can only serve to place
his crimes in a stronger point of light. His treason, avarice,
hypocrisy, ingratitude, barbarity, falsehood, deception, pecu-
lation, and robbery, all these are the base and black ci'inies of
this conspirator.

1. Treason. He solicited the command of the bulwark of
America on purpose to deliver it, Avith his benefactor and gen-
eral, into the hands of the enemy.

2. Avarice. Should we give a particular account of the
bargain he concluded, and the disputes about the price at
which he sold himself and country, even Britons themselves
must blush at the infamy.

3. Hypocrisy. The traitor Arnold had the face to speak
of religion in his address to the Americans. He had so totally
sold himself to the English, and was so entirely lost to every
moral sentiment, as not to perceive tlaat Providence itself had
patronized the cause of our independence, by discovering liis
plots in a manner next to miraculous.

4. IiKjratitude. He aimed to j)lant a dagger in tlie bosom
of his country, wliich had raised him from the obscurity in
which he was born, to honor which never could have been
the object even of his most sanguine hopes.

5. Bariarity. He intended to deliver up the fortress of
America to the Britons, and at the same time, to cover his own
perfidy, he designed there should be all the appearance of a
sincere assault, in Avliich many brave men must have fallen
victims to his treason, and only to screen liim from the shame
of it. •

6. FalscJiood. Falsehood to his own oiheers and troops,
falsehood to liis general, falsehood to liis country, false pass-
ports, and false oaths, from the beginning to the end of this
horrid business.

Y. Mean deception. "What subtleties and dissemblings,
what evasions and lies did he employ to conceal his jjlot ! A
villain who had stolen tlie purse of his inaster could not be
reduced to so ignominious a situation. If the fortune of Avar
should ever throw him into our poAver, he Avould doubtless
protest that his design in going OA^er to Ncav York, Avas only

1780.] eodney's account of andee. 335

to deceive the Britons, and to obtain a command bj which he
might better serve the Americans by betraying their enemies.

8. Peculation. His papers contain the most authentic and
incontestable proofs of this crime ; and that he never regarded
his important employments \>\\t only as power which enabled
him to pillage the public with impunity.

9. Bobhenj. He robbed his country at the time of her
deepest distress. He robbed his own soldiers when they
wanted necessaries. He robbed a poor helpless woman of a
pittance she had earned by service for his army. He robbed
liis own friends, who trusted and had greatly served him.

Tlais is the man to whom we are told the Britons have
given the rank of a general in their army. Tliis may be true,
perhaps they are capable of such an act. But if there is an
officer of honor left in the British army, he will sooner resign
his commission, or die by his own sword, than serve under, or
rank ■\\ath, Benedict Arnold.'

OcTOBEE 19. — ^The Governor of ISTew York hath issued a
proclamation, recommending to the inhabitants of that State,
to observe Tlinrsday, the second day of ISTovem- Thanksgiving
ber next, as a day of prayer and thanksgiving to ^^'^^
Almighty God, for the recent and remarkable deliverance
wrought in behalf of the United States hi general, and of tliis
State in particular, by the discovery of the treasonable conspi-
racy for betraying the fortifications in the Highlands into the
hands of the enemy ; to deprecate his wrath for the e^^ls pre-
valent among us, and humbly to implore a continuance of his
favor and protection."

OcTOBEE 20. — GovEENOE Jonis'STONE, says a wi-iter in
England, has received a letter from Sir George Brydges Eod-
ney, from New York, containing the following, Eodney-s Account
amongst many other authentic particulars, of the Captme of Andre,
late discovery of Arnold's plot. He says that the miscarriage
of the plan was owing entirely to delay ; for that Major Andre

' Boston Independent Chronicle, Dec. 8. ' Pennsylvania Packet, Oct. 24.

336 DIAET OF THE EEVOLUTION. [ITSO.

bad acted as valet de cliambre to Arnold for some time, and
had been twice backward and forward from New York to
Washington's camp. His detention was owing entirely to ac-
cident, and a want of presence of mind ; for after lie had been
seized by the three stragglers who first took him, they suffered
him to go ; bnt one of them stopped the others, and insisted
ujDon going after him again, from a conviction that there was
something suspicious about him. "WTien they again took him,
either from vv ant of recollection, or lest it might occasion sus-
picions injurious to Arnold, he did not produce a pass from
that general which ha had in his poclcet, but imprudently
offered, first his gold watch, and then his purse, Avhich con-
firmed their suspicions. As soon as he was brought to Gen-
eral Washington, and his person identified, the general, after
consulting with M. De Kochambeau, sent' his compliments to
Arnold, who had the command of five forts, amongst which
were the important ones of West Point and Stony Point, signi-
fying their joint intention of visiting him the next day, with a
reqiiest that his troops, consisting of twenty -seven hundred
men, might be drawn out. Arnold at that time not suspect-
ing a discovery, returned a willing answer ; but Washington's
aide-de-camp unguardedly dropping some expressions of a spy
being taken, and great discoveries being made in the camp,
Arnold took the alarm, and escaped precijDitately in a whale-
boat. General Washington, immediately on his escape, put
General Lord Stirling, seven colonels, and two members of
Congress, under an arrest. As soon as Sir Henry Clinton was
apprised of Major Andre's situation, he sent General Kobert-
son with a fiag of truce, to obtain his release on terms pro-
posed by him, or at least to sjjare his life ; but General Wash-
ington, acting conformably to all the rules of war, said he
could consider him in no other light than a spy, and that it
was impossible to relax from his sentence.'

OcTOBEE 28. — On Arnold's amval in New York, the saga-
cious great ones supposed, that upon paying particular atten-

^m

t-'>^^,^^i$-(l^

#

1780.] EPIGEAil OIT AKNOLD. 337

tion to the villain, tliey -n-ould lessen his crimes in the ejes
of the -n-orld, and introduce him to the notice of their circle,
without -which they foresaw he must sink into ob- ^j^^,^ ^^^
scurity and contemi^t. He was accordingly in ap- ^'"'- e»*'"'«'>"-
pcarance caressed by all in power, and General Eobertson's
house fixed upon for his residence. "Wlienever he chose to ride,
the diff'erent aids in rotation attended him in his promenade,
which gave rise to the following anecdote : One morning when
it was General Eobertson's aid's tour, he remonstrated with the
general against it, and showed evident marks of reluctance to
go upon that piece of duty. The general desired to know the
reason. Tlie aid honestly confessed, that to be seen attending
such a scoundrel through the streets, very much injured his
feelings. To which old Jemmy, pulling \ip his breeches, re-
l^lied, " Hut ! hut ! niun, and what think you of my feelings? " '

AN EPIGRAM.

'Twas Arnold's post Sir Harry sought,
Arnold ne'er enter'd in his thought.
How ends the bargain ? let us see,
The fort is safe as safe can be,
His favorite perforce must die,
His view's laid bare to ev'ry eye ;
His money's gone — and lo ! he gains
One scoundrel more for all his pains.
Andre was gen'rous, true, and brave,
And in his room he buys a knave.
'Tis sure ordain'd that Arnold cheats
All those, of course, with whom he treats.
Now let the Devil suspect a bite.
Or Arnold cheats him of his right.'

OcTOBEE 27. — Last evening, the infamous traitor Arnold
was carried through !N"ew Milford, Connecticut, in effigy. He
made his appearance sitting on his coffin, in a ArnoWs eai^t at
horse-cart, hung round with several pair of splen- ^'''■'' ""f<"'>'-
did lanterns ; behind the traitor stood the Devil, who seemed,
however, ashamed of so iinprofitable a servant. Tlie traitor

New Jersey Journal, Jan. 31, lYSl. ' Pennsylvania Packet, Oct. 24.

Vol. n.— 22

338 DIAEY OF THE EEVOLUTION. [1780.

being dressed in uniform, pinioned, and properly accoutred
for tlic gallon's, having made tlie tour of tlie town, was brouglit
under strong guard to the place of execirtion, where, in the
view of some hundred spectators he was formally hanged, cut
down, and buried. Tlie numerous populace expressed their
universal contempt of the traitor, by the hissing explosion of
a multitude of squibs and craclcers, with which they graced
his exit, as well as their joy at the timely discovery of his hell-
ish treason, by a beautiful illumination of tlie town. Tlie
whole procession and execution, with all things pertaining to
the exhibition, were conducted with the greatest decency and
good order. Thirteen volleys were fired by the guards, and
three clieers given by the people in testimony of their joy that
the States were rid of tlie traitor. This closed the scene. On
the heart of the traitor was fixed a label expressive of his real
character, the justice of his condemnation, and a bequest of his
soul to the Devil. A label from the Devil's mouth announced
his acceptance of the bequest, in regard to the traitor's inten-
tional service ; but on account of his motley performance, as-
signed him a place below every Devil of enterprise and ^vm-
ciple.

It is hoped the ever memorable 25th of September (the day
when the blackest of crimes was unfolded) will be observed
yearly throughout the United States of America, and handed
down to the latest jjosterity, to the eternal disgrace of the
traitor.'

OcTOBEE 30. — Colonels Campbell and Seviee have taken a
great part of Cornwallis' army, and a precious crew of Tones,
Battle of Kin-'-s ^^ luiig's Mouutaiu.'' Tlic battle took place on
Mountain. ° ^|jg ^J^]^ instant, and lasted more than an hour.'
The following is the official account: — "On receiving intelli-
gence that Major Ferguson had advanced up as high as Gil-

' Pennsylvania Packet, January 16, 1781.

" King's Mountain is situated near the Gherolcee Ford, in the northern part of
South Carolina. The battle ground ia about one mile and a half north of the
South Carolina line.

' CUft's Diary.

1780.] BATTLE OF KINg's MOITNTAIN. 339

bert town, in Eutlierford county, and threatened to cross the
mountains to the western waters. Colonel William Campbell,
with fonr hnndred men from "Washington county in Virginia,
Col. Isaac Shelby, with two himdred and forty men from Sul-
livan county in North Carolina, and Lieut.-Col. John Sevier,
with two hundred and forty men of "Washington county, North
Carolina, assembled at Wattango, on the 25th of September,
where they were joined by Col. Charles McDowell with one
hundred and sixty men from the counties of Burke and Eutlier-
ford, who had fled before the enmey to the western waters.
"We began our march on the 26th, and on the 30th we were
joined by Col. Cleveland, on the Catawba Kiver, with
three hundred and fifty men from the counties of "Wilkes and
Surrey. No one officer having properly a right to the com-
mand-in-ehief, on the 1st of October we despatched an ex-
press to Major-General Gates, infonning him of our situation,
and requesting him to send a general officer to take command
of the whole. In the mean time. Colonel Campbell was chosen
to act as commandant, till such general officer should arrive.
"We marched to the Cowpens on Broad Biver, in South Caro-
lina, where we were joined by Colonel James "Williams, with
four hundred men, on the evening of the 6th of October. He
informed us that the enemy lay encamped somewhere near the
Cherokee ford of Broad Eiver, about thirty miles distant from
us.

" By a council of the principal officers it was there thought
advisable to pursue the enemy that night, with nine hundred
of the best horsemen, and leave the weak horse and footmen
to follow as fast as possible. ^Ye began our march with nine
hiindred of the best men about eight o'clock the same evening,
and marching all night, came up with the enemy about three
o'clock P. M. of the Ttli. They were encamped on the top of
King's Moiintain, twelve miles north of the Cherokee ford, in
the confidence that they could not be forced from so advanta-
geous a post. Previous to the attack, on our march, the fol-
lowing disposition was made : Colonel Shelby's regiment
formed a column in the centre on the left ; Col. Campbell's
another on the right; part of Col. Cleveland's regiment,

34:0 DIAEY OF THE KEYOLUTION. [1780.

headed in front by Major Winston, and Colonel Sevier's,
formed a large colnmn on tlie right wing ; the other part of
Cleveland's regiment, headed by Col. Cleveland himself,
and Colonel "Williams's regiment, composed the left wing. Li
this order we advanced and got within a quarter of a mile of
the enemy before we were discovered. Col. Shelby's and Col.
Campbell's regiments began the attack, and kept up a fire on
the enemy, while the right and left wings were advancing to
snrronnd.them, which was done in about five miniites, and the
fire became general all around. The engagement lasted an
hour and five minutes, the greatest part of which time a heavy
and incessant fire was kejat up on both sides. Our men, in
some parts where the regulars fought, were obliged to give
way a small distance two or three times, but rallied and re-
turned, with additional ardor to the attack. Tlie troops upon
the right having gained the summit of the eminence, obliged
the enemy to retreat along the top of the ridge to where Col.
Cleveland commanded, and were there stopped by his brave
men ; a flag was immediately hoisted by Captain Depeyster,
the commanding officer, (Major Ferguson having been killed
a little before,) for a surrender. Oiu' fire immediately ceased,
and the enemy laid down their arms, the greatest part of them
loaded, and smTendered themselves prisoners to us at discre-
tion. It appears from their own provision returns for that
day, foimd in their cam]^, that their whole force consisted of
eleven Imndred and twenty-five men, oiit of Avhieh they sus-
tained a very heavy loss.'

' Account of the action given by Colonels Campbell, Cleveland, and Shelby,
in the New York Packet, November 23. The following is a statement of the loss
in this battle, as given by the above colonels ; — " Of the regulars, one major, one
captain, two sergeants, and fifteen privates killed ; thirty-five privates wounded,
left on the ground unable to march ; two captains, four heutenants, three en-
signs, one surgeon, five sergeants, three corporals, one drummer, and forty-nine
privates taken prisoners.

Loss of the Tories, two colonels, three captains, and two hundred and one
privates killed ; one major and one hundred and twenty-seven privates wounded,
and left on the ground not able to march ; one colonel, twelve captains, eleven
lieutenants, two ensigns, one quartermaster, one adjutant, two commissaries,

17S0.] PATRIOTIC WOMEN. 3-11

XoTEMEEE 1. —Me. "WAsnrsGTON seems to be playing the
royal game of goose with Messrs. Clinton and Knyphansen,
when by a single shifting of his position, he can oblige them
to begin the game afresh. Tliese generals had therefore better
take great care how they attempt trapping this old fox, lest
they themselves might fall into the same trap.'

l^oTEiiBEE 4. — Bt accounts from Maryland we are in-
formed, that the like spirit of patriotism has been kindled
amongst the women of that State as in Philadel- patriotism of the
phia. Large sums have been presented for the ^''^y'"""^ ^o™""-
use of the brave American army ; part of which has been laid
out in linen, and in one town, Baltimore, six hundred shirts
have beeii made for the immediate supply of the troops in
that article of clothing.

Mrs. Lee, the lady of his Excellency, the governor of the
State,'' had early written to women of the several counties,
who readily engaged, each to be the treasurer of her particu-
lar district. Eeturns have not yet been made of the sums
presented, but in some counties, that of Dorset particularly,
the amount of thirty pounds in specie, has been presented by
some individuals.

Li the city of Annapolis, notwithstanding many of the
citizens had removed to their country seats during the sum-
mer season of the year, and made their contributions in the
respective districts of their residence, yet there has been col-

cighteen sergeants, and six hundred privates taken prisoners. Total loss of the
enemy, eleven hundred and five men at Kiug's Mountain.
Given under our hands at Camp,
(Signed) William Campbell,

Isaac Shelby,
Benjn. Cleveland.
The loss on our side ivas, killed, one colonel, one major, one captain, two
lieutenants, four ensigns, nineteen privates — total, twenty-eight. Wounded, one
major, three captains, three lieutenants, fifty-three privates. Total sixty-four
wounded.

' New Jersey Journal, November 1.

^ Thomas Sim Lee was governor of Maryland from 1119 until IVSS. He was
afterwards chosen to represent the State in Congress, and was also a member of
the convention which formed the Constitution. He died in 1S19.

342 DIAET OF THE KEVOLUTIOX. [1780.

lected to the amount of sixteen thousand one hundred and
twenty-three dollars, and one third currency ; some ■women
offering two, some five, and some twenty guineas in specie.

It is needless to repeat the encomiums that have been al-
ready given to tlie females for then- exertions. Every Whig
mind miist be sensible that they deserve the highest praise.
Even those who are enemies to the cause must admit, that their
means of serving it do honor to the sex. The women of
every part of the globe are imder obligations to those of
America, for having shown that females are capable of the
highest political virtue. Those of posterity will also acknowl-
edge that they derive happiness and glory from them. "We
cannot help imagining, what some learned and elegant histo-
rian, the Hume of the future America, when he ' comes to
write the affairs of these times, Avill say on the siibject.

In a history, which we may suppose to be published about
the year 1820, may befoimd a paragraph to the following pur-
pose : — " The treasury was now exhausted, and the army in
want of the necessaries of life and of clothing, when the women
gave a respite to our aflau-s, by one of those exertions that
will forever do honor to the sex. In the state of simplicity
and plainness in which our country then was, they had not
earrmgs and bracelets to give, in imitation of the Eoman
ladies on a like occasion, but they presented gold and silver,
and what share of the paper money had come into their hands.
This was laid oiit in linens, and shirts were made by their
hands for the use of the soldiery, &c., etc., &c.

" Mrs. Eeed, of Pennsylvania, the lady of the then Presi-
dent, a most amiable woman, was the first to patronize the
measure. Mrs. Lee, of Maryland, lady of the governor of that
State, a woman of excellent accomplishments, was in her
State the next to receive the patriotic flame, and give it popii-
larity among her sex.

" Mrs. Washington, of Yirglnia, lady of his Excellency the
Commander-in-chief, was equally favoring to it in her State.
Tlie Jerseys had been already warmed by the example of the
virtue of Pennsylvania, and the females of that State, &c.,
&c., ifcc.'' '

Ivania Packet, November 4.

17S0.] AilEEICAN FmANCES. 343

NoTEJiBEE 6. — A ■miiTEE in London, says : — Tlie incredi-
ble fall of continental currency in America, may be understood
from tbe following notorious fact, viz. : Ten thou- American
sand pounds Maryland currency was worth six Finances.
thousand sterling ; ten tliousand pounds continental money is
worth one hundred pounds. Tlie difference makes a loss of five
thousand nine hundred pounds sterling, being as sixty to one.

Tliis was the exchange at Philadelphia in Jime last, and as
they had not then heard of Gates's defeat, it must be now
lower. Actions commenced for considerable sums by credit-
ors, have been obliged to be withdrawn, or a non-suit suffered :
a lawyer of eminence not opening his mouth in a trial of
consequence, under a fee oi one thousand pouncls, though tlic
legal fee is about forty, and the debt, if recovered, being paid
in continental money, dollar for dollar, worth now but a penny,
the difference between a penny and 4,?. Gd. sterling, is lost to
the receiver. Tlie Congress having called in the former emis-
sions, forty dollars for one, and giving that one in paper, cuts
off every hope it will hereafter ajyjyreciate. Tlie freight of a
hogshead of tobacco is three hundred pounds, or one hogs-
head for the carriage of another ; instead of the creditor pur-
suing the debtor with an arrest, the debtor pursues the cred-
itor with a tender of continental moncj-, and forces the bond
out of his hand. Hence it appears wliat the best fortimes in
that country arc reduced to ; an unpleasing reflection it must
be ! for time, which lightens all other losses, aggravates the loss
of fortune. Every day we feel it more, because we stand more
in want of the conveniences we have been used to. On the otlier
hand, new fortunes are made on the ruin of old ones. "War.
which keeps the spirits in motion, has diffused a taste for
gayety and dissipation. The French Eesident at Philadelphia
gives a rout twice a week to the ladies of that city, amongst
whom French hair-dressers, milliners, and dancers are all the
ton. Tlie Virginia Jig has given place to the CotiUon, and
minuet-de-la-cour. Tlie Congress are fallen into general con-
tempt, for their want of credit and power ; the army is abso-
lute, and has declared it will not submit to a peace made by
Congress ; the people grumble, but are obliged to surrender

344 DIAET OF THE EEYOLUTION. [1780.

one piece of furniture after another, even to tlieir beds, to pay
tlieir taxes. After all, a power drawn from snch distant and
dissonant parts cannot form a permanent union. Tlie force of
this kingdom, moving uniformly from one centre, must in all
human probability ultimately prevail ; or an accident may
produce, in an instant, what the most powerful efforts require
time and perseverance to accomplish.

November 14. — It is reported, that when Sir Henry Clin-
ton lieard of the disgraceful death of his brave and faithful
aide-de-camp, Maior Andre, he made a solemn

Clinton's Threat. ,_ . . , 1 n t -n> ■ • ,

declaration m the presence oi many oi the liritish
ofiicers, that if ever Washington fell into his hands, he would
hang him on the instant, and bury him without a coffin.

General Arnold was one of the principal partisans for the
American rebellion, and has distingixished himself in the field
more than any other American. Tlie public,
i-emember his exploits at Quebec, Sara-
toga, the Lakes, and many other places. The success of the
rebel arms over the northern army, was principally owing to
liis bravery and judicious arrangements. His acquisition is
regarded at New York as a very fortunate event, not only on
account of the merit of that gentleman in a military capacity,
and the secrets of which he is in possession, but as it is an in-
dication of those discontents and murmurings that have been
said to have distracted, for some time, the American councils.
It is a common saying at New York, that the sliij) must be
near sinking when the rats are leaving it.'

NoYEsrEEE 23. — This evening Major Tallmadge" returned
to Fairfield, in Connecticut, from a very spirited and success-
Eoductionof ^"1 enterprise against Fort St. George on Long
Fort St. George, jgiand ; having destroyed the fort and such forage
and supplies as could not be carried away by his men, and
taken fifty prisoners. Tlie following is the official report made
by the major, to General "Washington : — On the sixteenth of

' Upcott, vi. 14.3, 135, 167. ' Benjamin TaUmadge.

1780.] CAPTTEE OF FOET ST. GEORGE. 345

November, in obedience to your Excellency's orders, a de-
tacliment of Colonel Slieldon's dismounted dragoons, under the
command of Captain Edgar, v^eve ordered to marcb tlie next
day to Fairfield,- to whicli place I directed a niunber of boats
to repair. The troops arrived in the vicinity of Fairfield on
the evening of the 18th, at Avliich place, by reason of a very
severe storm, we were detained till the 21st instant ; on the
evening of which, at foiu" o'clock, I embarked the troops in
eight boats ; the whole in number, including the crews,
amounted to about eighty men. With a favorable wind we
landed safely on Long Island, at a place called the Old Man's,
about eight o'clock the same evening. After leaving about
twenty men with the boats in charge of Captain Sutton, we
began our march to put your Excellency's orders in execution,
but a very severe storm coming on, however it might have
favored an attack on the fort, obliged me to postpone it, as I
was well aware that attention must be paid as well to a favora-
ble time for re-crossing the Sound (which is at this place more
than twenty miles wide) as to attacking the fort. I accord-
ingly concealed the troops till the evening of the 22d, when,
at seven o'clock, we began our march across Long Island, and,
at three o'clock the next morning, were within two miles of
Fort St. George, at South Haven. By the most accurate in-
formation, I found that the fort and other works had been en-
tirely completed biit a few days before, and that the garrison
consisted of about fifty men. It may be necessary here to ob-
serve, that the works of Fort St. George consisted of two large
strong houses, and a fort aboiit ninety feet sqiiare, connected
together by a very strong stockade or line of sharpened pickets
twelve feet long, the whole fomiing a triangle, the fort and
houses standing in the angles. The fort consisted of a high
wall and a deep ditch, encircled with a strong abatis, having
but one gate, a sally port, which led directly into the grand
parade within the pickets. Tliis fort had embrasures for six
guns, though but two were mounted ; the houses were strong-
ly barricaded. From this description I found it necessary,
small as my detachment was, to make three different attacks
at the same time. I accordingly detached Lieutenant Jackson

346, DIAET OF THE EEYOLUTIOX. [1780.

with sixteen men, with orders to advance as near the fort as
he conld undiscovered, and tliere to halt till the alarm was
given 15y the advance of the detachment nnder my immediate
command. The van of this detachment, who carried axes to
beat down obstructions, was led by Lieutenant Brewster, di-
rectly against the new house, while the remainder, with Cap-
tain Edgar and myself at their head, followed close after.
Another small division was directed to tile off and surround
the other house ; Mr. Simmons bringing wp the rear, with
du'ections to halt where the breach might be made, to prevent
the garrison from escaping. Thus prepared, the troops were
put in motion precisely at four o'clock, and, contrary to my
expectations, the j)ioneers advanced within twenty yards of
the works before they were discovered. Tlie sentinel firing,
the different detachments immediately rushed on, and passing
all obstructions, met at the same instant in the centre of the
fort, where the watchword was given from all quarters at the
same time. Tlie guard in the fort was secured, but the two
houses contained the main body of the garrison, who began to
fire from the windows. I immediately ordered the troops to
enter the houses, the doors of which, though strongly bolted
and barred, were soon burst open, and in less than ten minutes
the whole garrison were our prisoners.

Being informed that a vessel lay within view of the fort,
loaded with stores, rum, wine, sugar, glass, ifec, I detaclied a
party who boarded and took her. Thus masters of tlie whole,
my first object was to demolish, as miicli as possible, their
works, &c. "We accordingly set fire to the small gai-rison,
buildings, stockade, and abatis, consuming at the same time
the public stores that could be collected, including a consider-
able quantity of ammunition and arms, which the troops, so
much fatigued, and having so long a march to make back,
could not carry. We remained at the fort from four to eight
o'clock iu the morning, when having destroyed as much of it
as possible, we began our march back. The vessel being
aground was burnt.

I feel particularly happy that I can inform your Excel-
lency, that we had not a man killed in this enterprise, and

1780.] TALLMADGE AT C0KA3I. 347

but one wounded ; liim we brought oif. Tlie enemy's loss
was seven killed and wounded, most of the latter mortall3^
Tlie surprise was so complete, that before they could rally
they were all prisoners.

On our return, I mounted ten men on the horses taken at
the fort, and, while Captain Edgar marched the detachment
and prisoners across the island, I filed oft' with

/-^ T n 1 Coram.

Lieutenant Brewster, to Coram, and set tire to tlie
whole magazine of the king's forage at that place, supposed to
contain more than three hundred tons, and joined the detach-
ment again in less than two hours. By this time the militia
began to muster, but prudently avoided coming near us.
Some guns were fired, but no damage received. By four
o'clock in the afternoon of the same day we reached our boats,
and having embarked the troops and prisoners, arrived safe at
this place at eleven o'clock on the evening of the 23d. Thus,
in about twenty-one hours, we performed a march of near
forty miles, took Fort St. George, &c., &c., and in less than
six hours more were landed at this place.

I should be remiss in my duty, should I omit to observe
that the ofiicers and soldiers under my command behaved
with the greatest fortitude and spirit, both upon their long and
fatiguing march, and in the moment of action. Mr. Muirson,
a volunteer upon the occasion, deserves commendation. He
advanced with a part of Lieutenant Jackson's detachment over
the abatis and wall, into the fort. In fine, every order that
was given was executed with alacrity and precision."

^ Pennsylvania Packet, December 12. The following is the return of prison-
ers taken in Fort St. George : — One half-pay lieutenant-colonel, one half-pay cap-
tain, one lieutenant, one surgeon, fifty rank and file, one garrison standard. The
British account of this expedition is as follows : — " A party of rebels, about eighty
in number, headed, it is said, by a rebel Major Tallniadge, assisted by a certain
Heathcot, Muirson, Bcnajah Strong, Thomas Jackson, and Caleb Brewster, officers
belonging to the said party, all formerly of Long Island, came across in eight whale
boats from somewhere about New Haven on the Connecticut shore, and landed
between the Wading River and the Old Man's, and are supposed to have been
concealed two or three days on the island by their old friends, the rclx'Is. On
Thursday morning, the 23d instant, about fifty of them marched across the
island, the remainder being left to guard the boats, and just after daylight ar-
rived at Smith's Point, St. George's Manor, south side Long Island, where they

348 DIAET OF THE EEVOLrTION. [1780.

November 2-i. — Last Tuesday, (21st,) at abont one o'clock
in the morning, a party consisting of one liimdred men, embark-
British Excursion '^^ ^^'*^™ 'Ncvf York in two flat boats and one gun-
to Jersey. boat, and proceeded to Eoger's Ferry, where tliey
landed and moved towards Ifewark, New Jersey, with one
three-ponnder, (whicli they posted on an eminence half way
between the aforesaid ferry and the town,) with a number of
musketeers to cover it and secure their return to their vessels,
where they left one gun-boat to cover their passage over the
marsh, shoiild the enemy pursue them. Captain Thomas
Ward then advanced at the head of fifty men undiscovered,
within four hundred yards of the rebel guard-house, when the
advanced party, under Captain MacMichael, fell in with their
patrol, who immediately fired upon him ; he charged them,
but finding himself flanked by immbers, who had posted
themselves in difi"erent houses, he thought proper to bring up
the piece of cannon, which was soon efl'ected by the vigilance
of Captain Housen. Until his arrival they maintained their
post in the centre of the town, though the enemy endeavored
to gall them as much as possible ; but a few rounds of grape
dispersed them for a little, when as they were disappointed in
their expectation, it was thought most prudent to retreat
towards their boats.

After keeping possession of the town an hour, apprehen-
sive the enemy posted at Cranestown would march do'wn

surprised a body of respectable loyal refugees belonging to Rhode Island and the
vicinity thereabout, who were establishing a post in order to get a present sub-
sistence for theniselres and their distressed families. The sentry, upon observing
them, fired, which they returned and mortally wounded him, and rushed into a
house. Mr. Isaac Hart, of Newport, in Rhode Island, formerly an eminent mer-
chant and ever a loyal subject, was inhumanly fired upon and bayoneted, wounded
in fifteen different parts of his body, and beat with their muskets in the most
shocking manner in the very act of imploring quarter, and died of his wounds a
few hours .after, universally regretted by every true lover of his king and country.
Four more refugees were wounded also, but are in a fair way of recovery ; a
poor woman was also fired upon at another house, and barbarou.sly wounded
through both breasts, of which wounds she now lingers a specimen of rebel sav-
ageness and degeneracy. The rebels carried off about forty prisoners. On their
return, at Coram, they burnt a magazine of hay about one hundred tons, and the
same day embarked for the Connecticut shore." — RivingtorHs Gazette, December 2.

1780.] EXCUESION TO JEESEY. 349

against them, tliey accordiugly began to retreat, but before
they got ont of town, discovered a body of rebels on tlieir
right flank endeavoring to ent ofl' their retreat, whilst others
proved troublesome in their rear, by keeping up a scattering
fire. They retreated some distance, when another party of
rebels were discovered on their left, wlio, finding it impossible
to cnt off their retreat, closed upon their flanks, and hard in
the rear, which obliged them to form a square to secm-e their
piece of ordnance. This they did by keeping up a scattering-
fire until they arrived at their boats. Shortly after the enemy
brought a six-pomider to the edge of the marsh, and kept
up a constant fire upon them during their re-embarkation.
Hiey lined the banks of the river below them with musketry
to harass the refugees whilst falling down in their boats ; but
by the bravery of Captains Housen and IloUingshead in the
gun-boat, they were kept at such a distance that they did but
little damage.

Strict orders were given against entering a house or plun-
dering, which were obeyed ; but when they first entered tlie
town, a party of the enemy fired upon them oiit of the upper
windows of Neil's house, but they paid for their folly, as some
of the i^arty set fire to the lower part, which consumed the
whole building.

K'ever did men behave better (being undisciplined) than
this small party. Their escape was almost miraculous. Six
men are wounded and two missing, one of whom it is imagined
was killed at the first onset. From the best accounts that
have been obtained, the loss of the enemy was three killed
and seven wounded, exclusive of those supposed to have been
burned at N'eil's house.'

jS'ovEjrBEE 26. — -A coeeespoxdent in Dublin, Ireland, says :
— Yarious conjectures have been liazarded, concerning the birth
and parentage of the celebrated Mr. Arnold, whose An Irish view of
dereliction of the American cause has been mag- Arnoui.
nified in its utter ruin. Hisinn tencatis ! Some have extend-

" Game's Mercury, November 27.

350 DLVKT OF THE EEVOLUTION. [1780.

ed their effrontery so far as to pronounce liim an Irishman, hut
to their confusion the secret has at length transpired. Fort
George, in the Highlands of Scotland, had the honor of giving
birth to this hero ; and there he passed his youth, until sent for
by a Yorkshire relation, a dealer in horses. During his resi-
dence in that shire, he added that cunning, for which it is pro-
verbially noted, and a competent knowledge of the mysteries
of the turf, to the prudent maxims of his native district. The
circumstances of his voyage to America are still enveloped
in mystery, though some assert that it was strictly according
to law, and in consequence of a judicial injimction. However,
by a series of concurring incidents, with his o^ti apjjlication
and address, he jockeyed himself into the confidence of the
Americans, and attained a degree of elevation, superior to his
most sanguine expectations. His tergiversation is generally
attributed to a Scotch Seer, whom he retained in his camp,
and who informed him with all the infallibility of second sight,
that the day woiild come when the English would subdue
America, and swallow millions at a meal. Tlie suggestions of
his countryman, according with the dictates of his native pru-
dence, determined the conduct of our modern Almanzor.
Wliat a pity ! must every humane reader exclaim, that the
generous, the unfortunate Andre has fallen a victim in attend-
ing to the artifices of a being so contemptible. '

ARNOLD ; OR, A QUESTION ANSWERED.
Our troops by Arnold thoroughly were bang'd,
And poor St. Andre was by Arnold hang'd ;
To George a rebel, to the Congress traitor,
Pray what can make the name of Arnold greater ?
By one bold treason more, to gain his ends.
Let him betray his new adopted friends.'

Decesibee 1. — ^The Americans, says a correspondent in
England, labor to keep the people in a political ignorance
American ^^^^^ ^hc greatest care and jealousy. No news-
Fictions. paper from New York is permitted to be circu-
lated among the colonists ; the captive ofiicers solicited that in-

' New Jersey Gazette, June 27, 1781.

° From a late London Paper in the Pennsylvania Packet, July 17, 1781.

1780.] AMEEICAN FICTIONS. 351

dulgence, to sweeten, in some measure, their confinement and
solitude, in vain ; this request was peremptorily refused them.
Fabricated Acts of the British Parliament are circulated
among the Americans. There is one, enacting, that every
man to obtain a license to marry, must pay to the King of Eng-
land fifty pounds, and for every son, twenty-five pounds, but
there is no tax on daughters. These gross fictions are tully
credited by the deluded populace, and are the only things that
render the rebel multitude averse to a return to their allegiance.
When truth comes out, as it will in time, it is to be hoped that
the resentment of the people will be directed against the au-
thors of so fatal deceptions, with a fury proportionable to the
severity and duration of the calamities that flow from them.'

December 5. — -A letter of this date from Charlotte, in
Xorth Carolina, says : — " Although some pains have been
taken to asperse the militia of this, as well as our ^^^ Actions at
sister States, on account of what happened on the *''^ ®°""'-
memorable 16th and ISth of August, yet I hope that an im-
partial world will not lose sight of those striking marks of
heroism displayed at Eamsour's, on the 20th of June, where
Colonel Locke commanded ; at Packolet in the night of the
15th of July, where Colonel McDowel commanded ; at Cole-
son's, the mouth of Eocky Eiver, on the 21st of July, where
Colonel, now General Davidson commanded, and in which he
was wounded ; at Eocky Mount, on the 23d of July, where
the heroic General Sumpter commanded ; at Hanging Eock,
on the 6th of August, where General Sumpter commanded ;
at Enoree, the 19th of August, where the late intrepid Colonel
"Williams commanded ; at Augusta, in Georgia, on the 12th of
September, where Colonel Clarke commanded; at King's
Mountain, on the Tth of October, where Colonel Campbell
commanded ; at Broad Eiver, on the 9th of November, where
General Sumpter commanded, and where Major Weymss was
made prisoner ; at Black Stocks, on Tygar Eiver, on the 20th
of November, where General Sumpter commanded, and was

'Upoott, vi. 161.

352 DIAKT OF THE EEYOLTJTIOK-. [1780.

unfortunately wounded ; besides several otlier rencounters.
Sucli a train of important victories, obtained by raw militia,
bas no parallel in bistory.

" Tbe firmness of tbe people in Mecklenburg and Eowan
counties, wben tbe enemy advanced to Cbarlotte, e\'ince tliat
tbey possess tbe most genuine principles ; tbey were left to
defend tbemsclvcs against tbe wbole force of tbe enemy. His
lordsbip took post at Cbarlotte witli amazing pomp. Procla-
mations were issued, peace and protection were offered to all
returning and penitent rebels, and deatb, witb all its terrors,
tbreatened to tbe obstinate and impenitent. Governor Mar-
tin witb great solemnity assumed tbe Government, and con-
ceived liimself reinstated. Tlie people generally abandoned
tbeir babitations, some fled witb siicb of tbeir property as they
could carry, otbers took tbe field, determined to dispute every
foot of ground, and some assembled in small parties, in tbeir
respective neigbborboods, determined to barass tbe enemy's
foraging parties. His lordsbip soon discovered tbat be was
in an enemy's country, witbout provisions, witbout forage,
witbout friends, witbout intelligence, witbout a single Inimble
servant except Peter Jobnston and McCafferty,' wbo at last
deserted bim in tbe nigbt, and came to make peace witb us ;
bis communication witb Camden cut off, and bis despatcbes
intercepted ; in tbe mean time our friends joined issue witb
Ferguson at King's Mountain.

" These are stubborn facts, and will do immortal bonor to
tbe militia. Lord Cornwallis' aid, in a letter to Colonel Bal-
four, wbicb was intercepted, says : — ' Cbarlotte is an agree-
able village, but in a d — — d rebellious country.' Ob ! had
we a well-appointed, well-disciplined, permanent force, what
a deligbtful back country dance we sbould bave led bis lord-
sbip at Cbarlotte." '

December 11. — Night before last a detachment of Colonel
James De Lancey's Eefugees, under the command of Major
Hugerford, penetrated Connecticut as far as North Street,

' New Jersey Gazette, January 31, 17S1.

1780.] ME. LAITKENS TAKEN PEISONEK. 353

and on the morning of the 10th, before day, made a

ful attack on the rebels posted there. From the situation

of the enemy it was necessary to make an attack De Lancey-s

, , )li T . Excursion to

on three dmerent posts on the same mstant; Connecticut,
the divisions for that pui-pose were led on by Captain Si-
mons, and Lieutenants Totten and Kipp, in a manner that does
them great credit. The loss of the rebels was fifteen killed
and twenty-fiA'e prisoners, among whom were Colonel Wells,
one brigade-major, one captain, two heutenants, and two
ensigns. Colonel "Wells expressed his astonishment at the
bravery of the conquerors, and acknowledged the humanity
and great civility of Lieutenant James Kipp, who com-
manded the attack against him, and to whom he surrendered.
The AYestchester detachment consisted of about twenty-five
mounted, and twenty-five dismoimted loyalists. Tlieir march
was sixty miles out and home, which, after effecting the
above coup^ was performed within the space of twenty-four
hours.'

Decembee 19. — Eaely in September last, Mr. Henry Lau-
rens was taken prisoner by the British frigate Yestal, on his
way from Congress to the Court of Holland, and jj^^^^ Laurens
is now confined in the Tower of London. A cor- t^ten Prisoner,
respondent at Portsmouth, England, gives the following ac-
count of his capture : — " Mr. Keppel, the captain of the Yestal,
was on a cruise off the coast of America, when he fell in with
the ship which carried Mr. Laurens, the President of the
American Congress. It was a Dutch vessel, laden with tobac-
co, and bound for Holland. As soon as Mr. Laurens perceiv-
ed the English armed boat make up to the vessel in which he
was, he threw the box that contained his letters overboard, but
the lead that was annexed to it proving insufficient for sink-
ing it immediately, one of the daring tars belonging to the
Vestal, leaped from the boat, and kept it afloat till the rest
him in lifting it.

" Mr. Laurens was bound to Holland with a commission

' Gaine'a Mercury, December
Vol. n.— 23

354 DIAET OF THE EEVOLUTION. [1780.

from the Congress, and the tenor of his business was certainly
of such a nature as must have produced immediate hostilities
between England and the States, if this accident had not
intervened to protect us against this farther misfortune. The
papers which have been found in the box above mentioned are
of the utmost consequence ; they contain an explicit detail
of his business with the States, and a full description of his
powers and commission there. Some secret correspondence
is said to be discovered between the members of the Congress
and certain great inhabitants of England, but we do not men-
tion this with any degi'ee of confidence, it having been an old
and favorite device of a disappointed Minister to insinuate the
imputation of treason against those men who have the fortitude
to discover a steady opposition to his measures.

" Government have sent word that Mr. Laurens should be
brought to London under a strong guard. They have ordered
one lieutenant to come in the chaise with him, and two more in
another vehicle behind. How he is to be disposed of, is as yet
a doubt with administration. Tliey are in a puzzle whether
he should be received only as an American captive, or be sent
to Newgate as a rebel." '

' Upcott, vi. 59. Mr. Laurens was committed to the Tower on the 6th of Oc-
tober. The commitment by the three Secretaries of State, ran thus : —

" These are, in his Majesty's name, to authorize you to receive into your cus-
tody the person of Henry Laurens, Esq., sent herewith on suspicion of high
treason, whom you are to keep safe until he shall be delivered by due course of
law ; for so doing, this is your warrant.

" Dated at Whitehall, the 6th of October, 1180.

" Stoemont,

" To Charles, Earl CornwaUis, " G. Germaine.

" Constable of the Tower of London, or his Deputy."

Thus far the London paper, on which we cannot but remark on the equivoca-
tion of the warrant, which says, on mspicion of high treason, by which it appears
that those three eastern wise men, the Secretaries of State, could not tell whether
it be treason or not, or at least they are afraid to call it so, lest it should turn out
a glorious revolution supported and approved by all Europe. The circumstances
of Mr. Laurens' commitment are thus related : — On his arrival in England he was
attended by the above secretaries, who, after informing him of their rank and
character, asked him, " Is your name Henry Laurens ? " "It is." "Are you the same
Henry Laurens who was President of the American Congress ? " "I am." " We are

1780.] LAUEENS' EXAMINATION. 355

Deceitbee 23. — The firmness of Mr. Laurens, whatever
opinions may have been conceived of the nature of his past
conduct, was certainly such, in his examination Lanrens-
before the Secretaries of State, as must extort ad- Examination,
miration from the most attached and enthusiastic partisan.
Besides the three Secretaries of State, who sat in solemn
council for the purpose of interrogating him, there were pres-
ent Mr. Frazer, the Secretary of Lord Stormont, Mr. Tliomp-
son, the -Secretary of Lord George Germaine, and Mr. Mans-
field, the present Solicitor-General. Their lordships com-
menced the business by severally putting such questions to
him as seemed to them of most peculiar importance. The
spirited American, in reply to their repeated interrogatories,
bowed, and thanked their lordships for the civilities and at-
tention he had received since the misfortune of his captivity,
but in all matters respecting his country he was determined on
the most inviolable silence. He then addressed himself to the

ordered by the King and Council to examine you, and have certain questions to
propose to you." "Your lordships may save yourselves the trouble of an examina-
tion, as I think it ray place to answer no questions you put." " Sir, we are directed
to commit you prisoner to the Tower." " I am ready to attend." This is so much
like the decisive character of Mr. Laurens that we give it to the public on the
presumption of its being a fact. — New Jersey Gazette, December 20.

The following extempore appeared in the "Public Advertiser," a short time
after Mr. Laurens' examination : —

When Laurens -was taken, the Minister blest.
Thought his -work was all done, and his carcase at rest;
Bat from Dilliugton fetch'd in a mighty surprise.
He shrugg'd and he rubb'd, and half opened his eyes.

When to London he came he look'd wonderful wise.
And tried for a moment to prop up those eyes ;
And declared that the German look'd much like a Soot ;
Yet was not very sure if he saw him or not.

His worship, besure, to the Tower was sent :

As he came from his lordship to Dillington went ;

In a few words I conclude ray extempore lay,

As the man would not speak — I have nothing to say,

But — Down, Derry down.*
* Upcott, Ti. 165.

356 DIAET OF THE EEVOLUTION. [1Y80.

Under Secretaries, who attended witli pen, ink, and paper,
read}^ to commit every expression to record, and observed to
them, (our readers may depend upon it, these are his own
words,) " Your paper, gentlemen, will certainly retain its
original purity for any thing that falls from me, for on this
subject I neither can nor will give the smallest information."
Mr. Mansfield then held a conference with their lordships,
the result of which was, an injunction xipou the subtle civil-
ian to practise a little of his profession upon the wary Ameri-
can, and to endeavor, by first asking trifling questions, and so
proceeding gradually to more material inquiries, to seduce
him into an inadvertent reply on some subjects of consequence.
This artifice was accordingly carried into execution, but the
same effect attended the lawyer's finesse, as had before accom-
panied the more open proceedings of their lordships, and
Mr. Laurens kept strictly to his first determination of total
taciturnity. He was five hours under examination.

All the material papers taken in the possession of Mr.
Laurens, have, by command, been sent to Windsor, to undergo
the inspection of a gi-eat personage.

Mr. Laurens' black servant, who was prohibited from at-
tending his master some days ago, lias been permitted, by an
order from the Secretary of State, to go to the Tower. The
order, however, is very limited, as it is an express injunction
that he shall never be left alone with Mr. Laurens, but that
the warder of the Tower is to be present at every interview
that passes between them.

When the above celebrated captive first arrived in the
metropolis, he was by accident carried into a house in Scot-
land Yard, in which Sir William Meredith was at that time a
lodger. Sir William and he had been acquainted some time
ago, so that as soon as Mr. Laurens had rested a little from the
fatigue of his journey, he sent up his name and compliments,
offering his services, and requesting an interview. Mr. Lau-
rens returned his best thanks to Sir William, for his obliging
intentions respecting him, but as he had received every atten-
tion and civility that his unhappy circumstances would admit
of from the hands of his captors, he did not think it would be

17S0.] THE soldiek's cards. 357

altogether honorable to indulge himself in any interview with
a gentleman, however ho might otherwise wish it, whose pro-
fessed political principles were in a direct opposition to theirs.
Sir William had good sense enough to admit the propriety of
the apology, and as an indication that he felt no chagrin from
the rejection of his application, that same evening sent Mr.
Laurens a present of a pine-apple.'

Decembee 27. — A soldiee in the American army being
unfortunately surprised at a game of cards by a sergeant who
owed him an old grudge, was carried before the ^^^ g^,^,;^^ ^^^
colonel of the regiment, that he might be punish- ■'"^ *^^'''^-
ed for gaming, against which general orders were very severe.'
Tlie soldier being asked what he had to say in his defence, re-
plied : That having been religiously educated, and well in-
structed in the Bible by his parents, and his pay so small that
with the greatest economy he had not been able to save enough
to buy one, he had therefore purchased an old pack of cards
for a few dollars of one of his comrades, which not only served
him for a Bible, but made a most excellent almanac besides ;
then taking out his cards he proceeded thus : " When I see a
one, it reminds me that there is but one God ; a two, of the
Father and Son ; a three, of the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost ;
a four, calls to my remembrance the four evangelists, Matthew,
Mark, Luke, and John ; a five, the five wise and five foolish
virgins ; a six, that in six days God created the heavens and
the earth ; a seven, that the seventh was to be kept holy ; an
eight, of the eight righteous pereons that were preserved
from the flood, viz. : Noah, his wife, his three sons and their
■i^^ves ; a nine, the nine ungrateful lepers cleansed by our
Saviour ; a ten, of the ten commandments ; the queen reminds
me of Queen Sheba, who came from the iittermost parts of
the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon ; and the king, of the
great King of Heaven." The colonel told him he had for-
got the knave. " That," replied he, " used to represent Judas ;
but from this time, when I see the knave, I shall always think

' Upcott, vi. 67. " See Vol. I., p. 445.

358 DIAEY OF THE EEVOLUTION. [1780.

of the sergeant who brought me before your honor." " I
don't know," interrupted the colonel, smiluig, " whether he ia
the greatest of the two, but I am sure he is the greatest fool."

The soldier then continued as follows : " When I count the
number of dots on a pack of cards they are three hundred and
sixty-five, for so many days there are in a year ; when I count
how many cards are in a pack, I find fifty-two, so many weeks
are there in a year ; when I reckon how many picture cards
are in a pack, I find there are twelve, so many months are
there in a year ; when I reckon how many tricks are won by a
pack, I find there are thirteen, this reminds me of the duty I
owe to the thirteen United and Lidependent States of America.
Tims they serve both for Bible and almanac." Tlie colonel
called his servant, told him to treat the soldier well, and dis-
missed him, saying he was a very clever fellow.

Eeader, be not ashamed of cards, since they may be ap-
plied to the best of purposes ; the scandal consists not in the
use, but in the abuse of them.'

Decembee 30. — ^TraoTHT Standfast, m the Virginia Gazette
of to-day, makes the following appeal to the peoj^le of Vir-
ginia : —

Feiends, Countetmen, and Beetheen: — When we made
our first eff'orts to rescue the liberties of America from the
An Appeal to th9 ^tters of arbitrary power, the Virginians stood
Virginians. foremost in the exei'cise of public virtue. The
love of our coimtry seemed to predominate over every other
passion, and military glory alone was the object that fired the
pride of our ambition, wisdom presided over our measiires,
and the stamp of policy marked the determination of our
councils. Difficulties at length grew upon us, and we have
learned to forget our duty ; a strange degeneracy of manners,
and a total subversion of principles, has almost obfuscated the
radiency of our hopes. For God's sake, my countrymen, rouse
from your lethai-gy, look into consequences, and return to
your pristine vigor. Pause but for a moment, and seriously

■ New Jersey Journal, December 27.

1780.] TIMOTHY standfast's APPEAL.

into the motives which influenced your former con-
duct, and the reasons that directed and governed your latter.
Have you already forgotten that we are struggling for the in-
estimable blessings of liberty, and that we are setting up a new
empire in opposition to the most imperious power upon earth ?
Have you forgotten the insults that were offered us by Great
Britain, and the solemn promise we made to each other Avhen
we appealed to the sword for justice, " that we would die or
be free in the struggle " ? Can you sufler reflection to have
the exercise of deliberate reason and not feel a virtuous indig-
nation at the ravages committed by the enemy on our land ;
the cruelties inflicted upon our inhabitants in their solitary
huts, and the barbarities practised upon our soldiers while they
were fighting for our safety, and bleeding for our property ?
I say, can these things be reflected on and not agitate the feel-
ings of every generous mind ? Gratitude and duty ought to
stinralate ouv actions to the accomplishment of that end which
involves in it the happiness of every persecuted son of liberty.
I mean the independence of America.

There is a dignity in the soul of man, which, when inter-
woven with the interest of his country, makes him act as if he
was immortal ; every power of his mind seems heightened to
a peculiar greatness, and all his actions blaze with the reful-
gency of magnanimity and patriotism. The moment is near
at hand when we shall all be tried to the very quick, and if a
manly and virtuous spirit is not immediately cherished, the
bayonet will be in the bowels of our country before we shall
have power to mark the limits of its vengeance. From the
best and most authentic accoimts we are assured that the
greater part of the British force will be turned the next cam-
paign against Virginia, and that every preparation is now on
foot to make the conquest of it (as they think) certain and in-
evitable. Great God ! what a picture of distress would a con-
quest of this country present to a sensible mind ! Let us sup-
pose, by way of trying our feelings, that they should succeed,
(detested thought ! were it possible I should weep over it,) what
would be our hopes and expectations? A life of infamy
di-agged out in chains, and rendered forever miserable by

360 DIAET OF THE EETOLUTION. [1780.

severe and bitter reflections, the epithet of rebel eternally
crammed down our throats by some hanghty Scotclmian, or
imperious Briton, a confiscation of property, the pains of
bondage, and the disgrace of the gibbet to ornament the black
catalogue of consequences, would attend our downfall. Yir-
ginians, think of the danger that threatens a bleeding coimtry !
Awake to public virtue, and sleep no more in the arms of in-
difference and supineness.

A people struggling for liberty becomes always the favorites
of Heaven ; and thoiigh some have failed in their attempts, it
proceeded more from their apostasy than any powers their
enemies had to conqiier them. The Dutch persevered through
a war of twenty years and upwards, maintained their independ-
ence against the power of Spain, and broke the chain of tyran-
ny that had for such a length of time fettered them to the
block of oppression. Tlie people of Switzerland, possessed of
an elevated notion of liberty, contended for their rights, and
fixed the sovereignty of their independence against every
attempt that could be made to subdue them. If we look back
into more ancient times, we shall view the free States of Greece
rising to eminence and glory through a cloud of difiiculties.
The Persian anny, terrible in niimbers, seemed to fix their
total ruin, but fate itself could not intimidate or alarm them ;
the brave Leonidas made a noble sacrifice of himself and three
hundred of his coimtrymen at Thermopylae, to convince the
hauglity Persians that men determined to be free would be so,
and although the force of Xerxes appeared sufilcient to con-
quer and subdue the world, yet such was the impression which
the valor of the Grecians made upon him, tliat he abandoned
the expedition. In Eome, patriotic zeal and a fiame of liberty
directed the actions of some of her citizens to sirch deeds of
glory, that their names have been handed down from age to
age with all the gilded ornaments of immortal fame.

We are now in a situation that has fixed upon us the atten-
tion of the whole world ; expectation sets Argus-like witli a
hundred eyes to view our actions, and every misfortune pro-
claims aloud any neglect that must stain us with dishonor.

Then, my countrymen, let us learn to be great by the ex-

1780.]

TIMOTHY STANDFAST S APPEAL.

361

ample that is gone before us ; let us catcli from the Dutch, the
Swiss, the Grecian, and the Roman sj^irit, a sjiark of each ex-
celling virtue, and compound a character of fortitude, resolu-
tion, firmness, and magnanimity, to stem the torrent of our ap-
proaching danger and assert a freedom which we dare main-
tain.'

Virginia Gazette, December 30.

CHAPTEK IX.

Januabt 1. — As the mamimission of slaves has become a

topic of general conversation, we beg permission to offer a few

. . , sentiments on the subiect : — ^The merits of almost

■^Manumission of *f

siayes. evcrj casc of litigation generally turns upon one
or two points. In the present instance the question is, we
conceive, whether law, justice, and policy, warrant the retain-
ing our slaves in theh- present situation ?

That we became legally possessed of them, or that they
were introduced into this country agreeable to its laws, no
one will presiime to deny, and that we cannot constitution-
ally be divested of them by legislative authority, is, we hum-
bly imagine, as evident as that white is not black, or that
slavery is not freedom. Our most excellent constitution
admits not the subject to be deprived of his life, liberty,
or property, but by a trial by a jury of his equals ; and lest
this inestimable privilege, the glory of freemen, should be
infringed on, the constitution expressly requires that no mem-
ber of the Legislature shall possess a seat in the House, until he
has solemnly sworn that he will mauitain this immunity in-
violate. It becomes, therefore, one of the unalterable particu-
lars of our rights, and cannot be relinquished by the guardians
of our liberties but at the expense of perfidy, and even of per-
jury itself. The liberation of oxu' slaves, therefore, without
the concm-rence of their possessors, we apprehend, is an object
infinitely further distant from the legal attention of om- assem-
bly, than are the heavens above the earth.

Whether, as individuals, justice permits the detention of
our negroes, is next to be considered. The Divine Saviour of

1781.] MANtranssioN of slaves. 363

men hatli been pleased to give a summary of our duty towards
each other in a single sentence, viz. : " To do to others as we
would they should do to us ; " or, " To love our neighbor as
ourselves." As we profess to believe in a future judgment, that
we shall one day give an account to the Supreme Governor of
the world of our actions, it highly concerns us to be attentive
that they be conformable to the heavenly law. That barbarity
to our slaves is repugnant to this law, cannot be controverted ;
but whether the divine precept enjoins us to free them or not
is the dispute. Were we in their situation, it is more than
probable we should pant after freedom ; and so does the poor
debtor desire a release from his creditor ; but the injunction
" to do mito others as we would be done to," does not oblige
the latter to free the former of the debt, if it hath not been
contracted by injustice. Nor can this command oblige us to
liberate our slaves unless they were sinfully obtained, or are
thus held in bondage. If the usages of the nations in Africa
justify the foreign and domestic slavery of their captives, they
can be purchased and retained without iniquity. But let us
suppose our negroes were stolen from their country, divested
of that natural liberty given to them by heaven, and reduced
to vassalage, it may be asked whether the whole of the guilt
devolves not on the perpetrators of the deed ? "Whether any
of the sin rests on those who have purchased of the posterity
of the slaves, or inlierit them by the gift or will of parents ?
The people of Africa were formerly and lawfully exposed here
for sale as articles of commerce, and it may be queried if in
conscience we were bound to inquire whether the Guinea mer-
chant became more rightfully possessed of his slaves than of
his gold dust, or any other commodity of Africa ? Is it pos-
sible an African will part with his liberty for temporary con-
siderations, as many Em-opeans have exchanged their freedom,
for a few years, for a passage only to America ; and the pur-
chasers of such servants never, perhaps, thought it incumbent on
them to inquire whether they Avere stolen or decoyed away by
their masters, (which we believe was often the case,) or received
an equivalent for their loss of liberty. We do not conceive
that slavery in itself is iniquitous. The Jews were suffered to

364 DIAET OF THE EEVOLTJTION. [1Y81.

have slaves ; and our very sons are such ; that is, perfectly
subject to the will of their fathers and at their disposal until
they attain the age of twenty-one years ; till then they are not
free ; and what is slavery but an entire submission to the com-
mands, disposal, or will of another ? But this vassalage we
endure without repining, as we esteem ourselves helpless and
incapable of self-government during our state of legal infancy,
or nonage. It may be said, if our slaves were unjustly ob-
tained, it must be unjust to hold them in bondage. We readi-
ly grant it would be so for an unjust importer of them, or the
heirs of the importer who received them without paying what
is deemed an equivalent for the property ; and we freely de-
clare we would not retain a slave under the circumstances, or
be instrumental in reducing a freeman to slavery for any con-
sideration. But as the slaves are among us ; as the sale of
them among ourselves does not cause a farther importation of
their countrymen, and if it is not disadvantageous to the slave,
we are as free to declare we cannot comprehend why, without
any injustice to him, he may not now be purchased and pos-

Humanity, indeed, wishes they could enjoy liberty and
happiness, consistent with justice to those who have honestly
bought them, and avc, in truth, consider our liberty as a pre-
clude to their release from slavery. The love of freedom, in
due season, we trust, will be so predominant, that either the
individuals whose property they are, will, for their emancipa-
tion, disregard their cost ; or the public, by subscription or
donation and not by law, (for we know of no just authority the
Legislatiire have to command the property of their constituents
for this pui-pose, without express permission,) will cheerfully
defray it, and put them on an equal footing with ourselves.
But a measure so important cannot be adopted without the
approbation of our Assembly ; for though, we conclude, they
have not the right to free our slaves without the consent of
their owners, they are judges of the j^ropriety of receiving
them as freemen of the State. Taking it for granted this dis-
position of benevolence now prevails either in their proprietors
among the people, or, if the reader pleases, that justice de-

1781.] MANUMISSION OF SLAVES. 365

mands the freedom of our Africans, for we -wish not to con-
tend for tlie negative in this particular, the other inquiry is,
whether the present is a proper period to eflect so laudable a
design ?

That there is " a time for all things," is an indisputable
truth. A small error in the execution of schemes, in point of
tune only, has been productive of the most unhappy effects.
A potion of medicine administered unseasonably, may occa-
sion the death of a patient, or the word of command given by
a general a moment too soon, may not only lose a victory, but
be productive of ruin to his army. If we desire the freedom
of our negroes may not be injurious to ourselves, or render
them more miserable than at present, we should duly attend
to this circumstance of time as well as to the mode of their
release. A premature attempt of this sort may be productive
of the most serious consequences. That the present day would
be improper for the execution of this business, must, we think,
appear evident to every one, on the least reflection. Should
our slaves be freed, they must either continue with us or in-
habit some territory by themselves. If the freemen of the
country find it difficult to support themselves and families at
the present time, is it reasonable to suppose that our slaves,
naturally indolent, unaccustomed to self-government, destitute
of mechanical knowledge, unacquainted with letters, with a
peculiar propensity to spirituous liquors, destitute of property,
and without credit, would pay their taxes and provide for
themselves, in the path of integi'ity, the necessaries and com-
forts of life ? Is it not more rational to infer, from these con-
siderations, that many of them would soon revert to their
former state, more wretched than before ; that great numbers
would become pests to society ; by plunder and rapine add to
the horrors of war, and that dire necessity would compel us to
deprive some of them not only of liberty, but also of life ?
Their sloth alone might be sensibly felt by the community at
this juncture, and on their arms, we are of opinion, for several
obvious reasons, there could not be any just dependence. Our
state of war forbids their removal to any exterior part of the
country, not only in regard of safety, but also in other respects.

366 DIAEY OF THE EETOLtTTION. [1781.

"Whenever they shall be emancipated, on mature deliberation,
perhaps it will be thought that small settlements of them, in
different parts of the continent, under proper regulations, will
be most compatible with our safety and their felicity. They
may thus become useful members of the body politic, enjoy
the simshine of freedom, together with the cheering rays of the
light of the gospel. Some compensation will this be for their
servitude ! A striking exhibition, too, of the goodness of the
Divine Being towards them, and of the wisdom of his holy
providence in bringing good out of evil ; in causing the inhu-
manity of their brethren, like that of the sons of Jacob to their
brother Joseph, to terminate in honor, glory, and happiness !
Until that day shall arrive, it is to be hoped the possessors of
slaves will revere the sacred precept, " to do as they would be
done by ; " mollify the hardness of slavery by acts of kindness ;
but above all, be particularly anxious to have them freed by
mstruction, admonition, and example, from spiritual thraldom,
and " brought into the glorious liberty of the children of God."
Tlie effecting of this will not only be paying a tribute to justice,
but also an advancement of our temporal emohunent ; for ex-
perience will decide, that it will not be less politic and wise
than humane and Christian.'

Janttaet 13. — A coEEESPONDENT gives the following narra-
tive of the late incm-sion made by the British under Arnold, to
. ,j . Kichmond, in Virginia :" — " On the 31st of Decem-

Arnold m ? &

Virginia. -j^gj, j^g^;^ ^ letter from a private gentleman to Gen-
eral ISTelson, reached Eichmond, notifying that on the morning
of the preceding day, twenty-seven sail of vessels had entered
the capes, and from the tenor of the letter, there was reason to
expect, within a few hours, farther intelligence whether they
were friends or foes, their force, and other circumstances.
General Nelson went immediately into the lower country, with
power to call on the militia in that quarter, or to act otherwise
as exigencies should require. Tlie call of the militia from the

" Impartial," in the New Jersey Gazette, January 10.
See another account, January 31.

1781.] AitNOLD IN VIEGmiA. 367

middle and upper counties, was not made till intelligence
could be received that the fleet was certainly hostile. No far-
ther intelligence came till the second instant, when the former
was confinned ; it was ascertained that they were enemies, and
had advanced up James' Eiver to "Warrasqueak Bay. All ar-
rangements were immediately taken for calling in a suflicient
body of militia for opposition. In the night of the third, advice
was received that they were at anchor opposite Jamestown.
"Williamsburg was then siipposed to be their object ; the wind,
however, which had hitherto been unfavorable, shifted fair,
and the tide being also in their favor, they ascended the river
to Kennon's that evening, and with the next tide came up to
Westover, having on their way taken possession of the battery
at Hood's, by which two or three of their vessels had received
some damage, but which was of necessity abandoned by the
small garrison of fifty men placed there on the enemy's land-
ing to invest the works. Intelligence of tlie enemy's having
quitted the station at Jamestown, from which it was supposed
they meant to land for "Williamsburg, and that they had got in
the evening to Kennon's, reached Hichmond at five o'clock in
the morning of the fourth. This was the first indication of
their meaning to penetrate towards Eichmond or Petersburg.
As the orders for drawing the militia thither had been given
but two days, no opposition was in readiness. Every eftbrt
was therefore necessary to withckaw the arms and other mili-
tary stores, and records, and accordingly every exertion was
made to convey them to the foundry and laboratory, till about
sunset of that day, when intelligence was received that the
enemy had landed at "Westover. From this it appeared that
Richmond, not Petersburg, was their object ; and it be-
came necessary to remove every thing which remained there,
across the river, as well as what had been carried to the foun-
dry and laboratory ; which operation was continued till the
enemy approached very near. Tliey marched from "Westover
at two o'clock in the afternoon of the fourth, and entered Eich-
mond at one o'clock in the afternoon of the fifth. A regiment
of infantry and about fifty horse continued on without halting
to the foundry ; they burnt that, the boring-mill, the magazine,

36S DIAET OF THE KEVOLtlTION. [1781.

and two other houses, and proceeded to "Westham, but nothing
being in their power there, they retired to Eichmond. The
next morning tliey burnt some buildings of public, and some
of private propei-ty, with the stores which remained in them ;
destroyed a great quantity of private stores, and about twelve
o'clock retired towards Westover, where they encamped with-
in the Neck the next day. Tlie loss sustained is not yet ac-
curately known. At Eichmond about three hundred muskets,
some soldiers' clothing to a small amount, sulphur, some quarter-
masters' stores, of which one hundred and twenty sides of
leather was the principal article, part of the artificers' tools,
and three wagons ; besides five brass four-pounders, which
had been sunk in the river, were discovered to them, raised,
and carried off. At the foundry about five tons of powder
was thrown into the canal, of which there will be a considera-
ble saving, by re-manufacturing it. Part of the papers belong-
ing to the Auditor's ofiice, and the books and papers of the
Council ofiice, which were ordered to "Westham, but in the
confusion carried by mistake to the foundry, were also de-
stroyed. The roof of the foundry was burnt, but the stacks of
chimneys and furnaces are not at all injured. "Within less
than forty-eight hours of the time of their landing, and nine-
teen from our knowing their destination, they had penetrated
thirty-three miles, done the whole injury, and retired. Our
militia dispersed over a large tract of country, can be called in
but slowly. On the day the enemy advanced to Eichmond,
two hundred only were embodied ; they were of that town and
neighborhood, and were too few to do any thing efiiectual.
The enemy's forces are commanded by the parricide Arnold.'"

Januart 15. — ^Tke North Carolina boys have retiu-ned from
the expedition against the Cherokees crowned with

Campbeirs Colouel Arthur Campbell, who commanded them,

Cherokee Expedi- .,. -\r -r m ini-n

tion. in his report to JMLr. Jetierson, dated this day,
gives the following circumstantial account of their experience :
— " On reaching the frontier, I found the Indians meant to

' New Jersey Gazette, January 31.

17S1.] CAilPBELL's EXPEDrnON. 3G9

annoy ns by small parties, and carry off horses. To resist
tliein effectually, the apparently best measure was to transfer
the war without delay into their own borders. To raise a
force sufficient, and provide them with provisions and other
necessaries, seemed to be a work of time that woiild be accom-
panied with uncommon difficulties, especially in the winter
season. Our situation was critical, and nothing but an extra-
ordinary effort could save us and disappoint the views of the
enemy. All the miseries of 1776 came fresh in remembrance,
and to avoid a like scene men flew to their arms, and went to
the field. Tlie Wattago men, under Lieutenant-Colonel Sevier,
first marched to the amount of about three hundred ; the mili-
tia under Campbell, with those of Sullivan, made four hundred
more. The place of rendezvous was to be on this side the
French Eiver. Colonel Sevier with his men got on the path be-
fore the others, and by means of some discoveries made by his
scouts, he was induced to cross the river, in pursuit of a party
of Indians that were coming towards our settlements. On the
16th of December he fell in with the party, since found to con-
sist of seventy Indians, mostly from the town of Chote, killed
thirteen, and took all their baggage, &c., in which were some
of Clinton's proclamations, and other documents expressive of
their hostile designs against the Americans.

" After this action, the "Wattago corps thought proper to re-
treat to an island in the river. On the 22d I crossed the French
Eiver, and found the Wattage men in great want of provisions.
"We gave them a supply from our small stock, and the next
day made a forced march towards the Tenasse. Tlie success
of the enterprise seemed to rest on our safely reaching the fur-
ther bank of that river, as we had information that the In-
dians had obstructed the common fording places, and liad a
force ready there to oppose our crossing. The morning of the
2-1-th I made a feint towards the island town, and with the
main body passed the river at Timotheo. We were now dis-
covered ; the Lidians we saw seemed to lie flying in consterna-
tion. Here I divided my force, sending a part to attack the
towns below, and with the other I proceeded towards their
principal town Chote. Just as I passed a defile above Toque,
Vol II.— 24

370 DIARY OF THE REVOLUTION. [1781.

I observed the Indians in force, stretcliing along the hills be-
low Chote, with an apparent design to attack our van, then
within their view ; but the main body too soon came in sight
forme to succeed in decoying them oif the hills ; so they quiet-
ly let us pass on in order, without firing a gun, except a few
scattering shot at our rear, at a gi-eat distance from the cliffs.
We soon were in possession of their beloved town, in which we
found a welcome supply of provisions. The 25th, Major Mar-
tin Avent with a detachment to discover the route the enemy
were flying off by. He surprised a party of Indians, took one
scalp, and seventeen horses loaded with clothing, skins, and
household furniture. He discovered that most of the fugitives
were making towards Telico and the Hiwasse. The same day,
Captain Crabtree, of the Virginia regiment, was detached with
sixty men to burn the town of ChilhoAvee. He succeeded in
setting fire to that part of it which is situated on the south
side of the river ; although he was attacked by a superior
force, he made good his retreat.

" The 26th, Major Tipton, of the Carolina coi-ps, was de-
tached with one hundred and fifty mounted infantry, with
orders to cross the river, dislodge the enemy on that side, and
destroy the town of Telassee. At the same time Major Gilbert
Christian, with one hundred and fifty foot, were to patrol the
hills on the south side of Chilhowee, and burn the remaining
part of that town. This party did tlieir duty well, killed three
Indians, and took nine prisoners. Tlie officer of the horse, by
an unmilitary behavior, failed in crossing the river. This trip
took two days. In the mean time the famous Lidian woman,
Nancy Ward, came to camp. She gave us various intelligence,
and made an overture in behalf of some of the chiefs for peace ;
to which I then evaded giving an explicit answer, as I wished
first to visit the vindictive part of the nation, mostly settled
at Hiwasse and Chistowee, and to distress the whole as much
as possible by destroying their habitations and provisions. The
28th we set fire to Chote, Sietogo, and Little Tuskeego, and
moved our whole force to a town on Telico Eiver, called Kai-a-
tee, where I established a post to secure a retreat, and to lay up
provisions. In the evening. Major Martin, on returning from

1781.] Campbell's expedition. 371

a patrol, attacked a party of Indians, killed two,^ and drove
several into the river. The same evening, in another skir-
mish, we lost Captain James Elliot, a gallant young officer,
being the first and only man the enemy had power to hnrt on
the expedition ; the Indians lost three men on the occasion.

" Tlie 29th I set out for Hiwasse, distant about forty miles,
leaving at Kai-a-tee, under Major Christian, a garrison of one
hundred and fifty men. Tlie SOtli we arrived at the Hiwasse,
and found the town of the same name abandoned. Li patrol-
ling the environs, we took a sensible young wanior, who in-
formed us that a body of Indians, with McDonald, the Eritish
Agent and some Tories, were at Chistowee, twelve miles dis-
tant, waiting to receive us. I had reason to believe that the
enemy had viewed us from the hills above Hiwassee, for which
reason I ordered our camp to be laid ofl", fires kindled, and other
shows made, as if we intended to stay all night. At dark we
set out with about three hundred men, (the Wattago men re-
fusing to go farther,) crossed the river at an unexpected ford,
and that night got near the town. Early in the morning of
the 31st, we foimd that the enemy had fled in haste the even-
ing before, leaving behind them as they had done at the other
towns, almost all their corn and other provisions, together with
many of their utensils for agriculture and all their heavy house-
hold furniture, with part of their stocks of horses, cattle, and
hogs. Tliese towns I expected would have been contended for
with obstinacy, as most of the Chickamogga people had re-
moved thither after their visitation in 1779. Our troops be-
coming impatient, and no other object of importance being in
view, it was resolved to return homewards. Major Martin,
with a detachment, was ordered to pass by Saltoga, and the
other towns on the Telico Eivcr. In his route, he took four
prisoners, from whom he learned that several of the chiefs had
met a few days before, to consult on means of procuring peace.
As I found the enemy were humbled, I took the liberty to
send the chiefs a message.'

'The following is the message sent by Colonel Campbell: — "Chiefs and
Warkiors, — We came into your country to fight your young men ; we have killed
not a few of them, and destroyed your towns. Tou know you began the war by

372 DIAEY OF THE EETOLUTION. [1Y81.

" Onr -whole loss on tliis expedition was, one man killed
by the Indians, and two Avonnded by accident. It wonld have
been very pleasing to the troops to have met with the whole
force of the nation at once on equal ground, but so great was
the panic that seized them after seeing us in order over the
Tenasse, that they never ventured themselves in sight of the
army, but on rocky cliffs, or other ground inaccessible to our
mounted infantry. By tlie returns of tlie officers of different de-
tachments, we killed twenty-nine men, and took seventeen
prisoners, mostly women and children ; the number of wound-
ed is uncertain. Besides these we brought in the family of
Nancy Ward, whom for their good offices we do not consider
as prisoners. Tlie whole are in Major Martin's care at the
Great Island, until the sense of Government is known how
they are to be disposed of. We have destroyed the towns of
Chote, Sietogo, Tuskeego, Chilhowee, Toque, Micliqua, Kai-a-
tee, Saltoga, Telico, Hiwassee, and Chistowee, all principal
towns, besides some small ones, and several scattering settle-
listening to the bad counsels of the King of England and the falsehoods told to you
by his agents. "We are now satisfied with what is done, as it may convince your
nation that we can distress them much at any time they are so foohsh as to en-
gage in a war against us.

"If you desire peace, as we hare understood you do, we, out of pity to your
women and children, are disposed to treat with you on that subject, and talce you
into friendsliip once more. We therefore send this by one of your young men,
who is our prisoner, to tell you if you are also disposed to make peace, six of your
head men must come to our agent. Major Martin, at the Great Island, within two
moons. They will have a safe passport, if they will notify their approach by .1
runner with a flag, so as to give him time to meet them with a guar.d on Halstein's
Eiver, at the boundary hne. The wives and children of those men of your nation
that protested against the war, if they are willing to talce refuge at tlie Great
Island until peace is restored, we will give a supply of provisions to keep tliem
alive.

" Warriors, listen attentively : If we receive no answer to this message until the
time already mentioned expires, we shall then conclude you intend to continue to
be our enemies, which will compel us to send another strong force into your coun-
try, who will come prepared to stay a long time, and take possession thereof as
conquered by us without making any restitution to you for lands.

"Signed at Kai-a-tee, the fourth day of January, 17S1, by

" Arthur Campbell, Colonel,
" John Sevier, Lieutenant,
Joseph Martin, Agent and Major of Militia."

17S1.] EEVOLT OF THE PENNSYLVANIAIsS. 373

ments, in which wei'c iipwards of one thousand houses, and not
less tiian fifty thousand bushels of corn, and large quantities
of other kinds of provisions, all of which, after taking si^fficient
subsistence for the army whilst in the comitry and on its re-
tiu-n, were committed to the flames, or otherwise destroyed.
No place in the Over Hill country remained unvisited, except
the small town of Telassee, a scattering settlement in the neigh-
borhood of Chickamogga, and the town of Calogee, situated
on the sources of the Mobile. We found in Okanastota's bag-
gage, which he left behind in his fright, various manuscripts,
copies of treaties, commissions, letters, and other archives of
the nation, some of which show the double game that people
have been carrying on durhig the present war. Tliere seemed
to ■ be not a man of honor among the chiefs, except him of
Kai-a-tee, whom I would willingly have discriminated, had it
been in my power. !N"ever did a people so happily situated,
act more foolishly, in losing their livings and their country at
a time an advantageous neutrality was held out to them ; but
such are the consequences of British seduction. The enemy in
my absence did some mischief in Powell's Yalley, and on the
Kentucky path, near Cumberland Gap, besides three children
that they scalped on Halstein ; one of the perpetrators of which
we killed on our return, and retook a number of horses. The
Botetourt and Montgomery militia were too slow in their
movements to do any service." '

Januaey 1G. — ^TuE following is an autlientic account of the
disorders that have lately taken place among the soldiers of
the Pennsylvania line, which are now happily j,^^^^^,^^^.^ j^,^^
settled : — -A discontent arose among them on the I'tvoit.
first of this month about the period of their enlistments, wliich
many of them contended were expired. Some invidious com-
parisons were also made between the large bounty given to
enlist those whose time was confessedly out, and the condition
of those who were engaged during the war. Endeavors were
used by the ofiicers to quiet them, but without success. One

' Xew Jersey Gazette, March 21.

374 DIAEY OF THE EEVOLTJTION. [1Y81.

ofScei" was unfortunately killed, and a great part of the soldiers
marched off from their encampment towards the Delaware.
They were under the conduct of their sergeants ; but General
Wayne, with some other officers, determined to follow and
keep with them, at all events, though the general could not
prevail upon them to stop till they came to Princeton. Tliey
marched through the country with great regularity and good
conduct, and perhaps less damage tlian is common on the pass-
ing of troops. While they continued at Princeton, a sergeant
of the British army with one Ogden, an inhabitant of New
Jersey, for a guide, came to them, and made proposals from Gen-
eral Clinton. These they rejected with so much honor and in-
dignation, that they seized the messengers and delivered them
to General Wayne, who put them iinder guard. Soon after
this a Committee of the Council of Pennsylvania together
with a Committee of Congress met the soldiery. Tlieir griev-
ances were redressed, particularly by giving an interpretation
favorable to the soldier of the enlistments which were for
three years, or during the war ; declaring them to expire at
the end of the three years. They marched from Princeton on
Tuesday the ninth. On Wednesday the tenth, the two spies
were tried, and executed next day at the cross roads near the
iipper ferry. Commissioners were appointed to hear and settle
the claims of the soldiers, who are now going through them
with all possible despatch ; and on Monday the Committee of
Congress retm-ned to Philadelphia.

Upon the Avhole, this affair, which at first ajipeared so
alarming, has only served to give a new proof of the inflexible
honor of the soldiery, and their inviolable attachment to
American liberty ; and will teach General Clinton, that though
he could bribe such a mean toad-eater as Arnold, it is not in
his power to bribe an American soldier.'

■ New Jersey Gazette, January 17. The.success of tlie Pcnnsvlvaina revoltera
encouraged about one hundred and sixty of the Jersey brigade to seek redress in
a similar way on the 20th of the same month. Their number was not alarming.
The American General, Robert Howe, w.is sent off with a large detachment from
the main army, with orders to compel the mutineers to unconditional submission,
and to listen to no terms while they were in a state of resistance, and on their re-

1781.] BATTLE OF THE COWPENS. 375

Jancaky 17. — This morning, after a very severe action,
General Morgan, with a detacliment of the southern army,
obtained a complete victory over Colonel Tarleton ^^^^■^^ ^^ j^^
at the Co^vpens, with eleven hundred and fifty cowpens.
men, the flower of Cornwallis's army. Tarleton, that enter-
prising, though inhuman young officer, advanced to tlie attack
about sunrise. General Morgan was apprised of his approacli,
and had time to form his troops in a manner which would
have done honor to the most experienced general. His whole
force, including the Georgia, South and North Carolina mili-
tia, amoTinted to but eight hundred men. Tlie conflict was
severe, and the Americans at first were yielding to the impres-
sion. A critical manoeuvre was performed in the height of the
action. Tlie continental infantry were obliged to change their
front, to j)revent their being flanked by the enemy ; it was
done with coolness and activity, and terminated the fate of the
day. When formed, a close and well-directed flre was given,
which threw the enemy into confusion. Embracing tlie for-
timate moment, a general charge was directed, a total route
ensued, and no opposition was made afterwards. About eight
hiindred, including the wounded, with twenty-nine commis-
sioned officers, were taken prisoners, and near one himdred
and fifty left dead on the field ; two field-pieces, the same
which General Morgan took in 1777, upon Bemis Heights,
two stands of colors, thirty -five baggage wagons, and eight
hundred stands of excellent arms, together with all their music,
were among the trophies of victory ; and what adds to its im-
portance, it was obtained with the loss of but ten killed and
fifty-three wounded of the Americans.

Tliis is but the prelude to the era of 17S1, the close of
which, we hope, will prove memorable in the annals of history,

duction instantly to execute a few of the most active and incendiary leaders ; for
General Washington preferred any extremity to a compromise. When he arrived
instant submission was required, and the two ringleaders were directly taken,
tried, and executed. The British wished to benefit by this revolt, and forwarded
proposals by one Woodroff, but he instantly delivered them to the American offi-
cers. Thus were the high hopes which Clinton had entertained from the revolt of
the Pennsylvania hue, completely baffled — Gordon, iv. 22.

376 DIAKY OF THE EEVOLUTION. [1781.

as the liappy period of peace, liberty, and independence to
America.'

Januaut 19. — Yksteedat, in the evening of the Instre of

their wretchedness, departed this life, to the great grief of all

The Death of wickcd mcn, their most exalted Excellencies the

Congress. Congrcss of America ; and about midnight their
remains were deposited in a vault prepared for them in the
niQst comfortable warm region of infernal misery. By their
death that sweet babe of grace. Miss America Kebellion, who
from her birth (till the death of her parents) had been nursed
and brought up with all the tenderness that such delicate
charms, such bewitcliing beauty, and such perfect deformity,
could require, is now left a poor helpless oi-phan, destitute of
friends, and in want of the necessaries of life ; nor has the
poor soul a rag to cover her nakedness.

Tlie following is the last Avill and testament of the de-
ceased: — "In the name of the Devil, we, the Congress of
Last Will of America, in Congress assembled, being weak in

Congress. body, low in credit, and poor in estate, but rich,
high, and strong in expectation, that by our hellish, faithful
behavior on earth, we shall be advanced to the highest esteem
and favor of Satan in his kingdom, do make, publish, and de-
clare this our last will and testament in manner following,
that is to say, first and principally Ave do (as by the strongest
tie of duty bound) consign our, and each of our souls, purely
vicious as they are, together with all, each, and every, the
faculty and faculties inseparately adlierent thereto, or to each
of them, unto the most highly damned serpent, his Sovereign
Majesty of Hell, he having by many titles a just claim thereto.
And it is our will, that our executor hereinafter named, do, as
soon as conveniently may be after our decease, or even before
it, cause our names to bo registered among the grand infernal
records of Hell. And, as touching our Avorldly Avealth, whicli
we have by so many noble frauds, robberies, ' and murders,
amassed together and concealed, we give, devise, and bequeath

' New Jersey Gazette, February 21.

1781.] LAST WILL OF CONGEESS. 377

tlie same unto and Letween onr two most dearly beloved and
most vilely great and good allies, the Frencli King, and King
of Spain, to hold the same as long as they shall continue to act
with the same uniform conduct, and promote the interest of
their brother Sovereign, to whose kingdom wo are hastening
in a swift course of rapidity. But in default of such conduct
in them or either of them as aforesaid, then we give, devise,
and bequeath, all and whatsoever is before specified, in the
last before-mentioned bequest, or the share of such defaulter,
to and among all, any, or either of the potentates of Europe,
who shall by his, her, their, any or either of their zeal, (mani-
fested by real service to our most noble benefactor Lucifer,)
whether under the mask of armed neutrality, open and avowed-
ly, or otherwise howsoever, cherish, succor, help, and comfort
all those Americans who shall be inspired with the most noble
sentiments of rebellion, against that great enemy to our con-
stitution of Ilell, George the Tliird of Britain, whose subjects
in the most strange infatuation look up to, love, and honor
their king. In him there is also the most sui-prising infatua-
tion, that ho governs them by their own laws, and wastes all
his time to promote their happiness ; nor does his infatuation
cease here, he loves his qixeen and family ; and, moreover, he
is so righteously wicked that he loves and fears his God. Now,
we should make another bequest, that is, of the land and soil
of North America, by our will, by our free will, it should go
to, and be divided between, our two said great and good allies ;
but doubts arising in our purely vicious breasts concerning the
operation of such bequest, we laid our case respecting the
same before the Devil in coimcil, who just now returned it
with his_ opinion, thereimder wrote, in the words following :■ — ■
' No part of the land and soil of North America can be con-
veyed by your will ; — it is as much out of the power of all hell
to prevent North America being subject to Britain, as it will
be in the power of the King of Spain to hold South America,
for Britain will most assuredly extend her dominion over
the whole ! ' Now, we do nominate and appoint our most in-
fernally noble and dearly beloved Devil, guardian to om- dear
and only daughter Miss America Eebellion, trusting to him

378 DIAKY OF THE EETOLUTION. [1781.

the sole care, maintenance, and education of that most dntiful,
beautiful child. And we do also nominate and apjjoint him
sole executor of this our will, made and executed in his pres-
ence this eighteenth day of January, and in the fifth year of
our independence.

" Signed, sealed, published, declared, and delivered, by order
of Congress, (just now expiring,)

" Charles Thomson, Secretary, (L. S.) " '

Janttaut 2*4. — Daitiel Coxe, upstart, and private secretary

to their high mightinesses the " Commissioners, for restoring

commissioDevs; peace to the colonies and plantations in North

icized. Amei-ica, and for granting pardons to such of his
Majesty's subjects now in rebellion, as shall deserve the royal
mercy, &c.," has been circulating small bits of paper, with the
following printed thereon, in Hugh Gaine's best style : — " No-
tice is hereby given, that any rebel desirous of benefiting by
the Commissioners' proclamation,'' is, on his arrival at the first
place under the King's government, to surrender himself to
the nearest civil or military oflicer, and declare to him his in-
tentions. He is then, without loss of time, to repair to the
next military post on the road to New York, and to give a
like notice of his wish to renounce rebellion, and sue for the
King's grace.

" The officer commanding is hereby authorized and re-
quired to give a certificate of such surrender, and a pass to the
person to proceed to New York, specifying a reasonable time
for that purpose, and the route he is to follow.

" On his arrival at New York, he is to present the pass to
the commandant, and make an application to the Secretary of
the Commissioners, that, if he falls under the description of
persons entitled to the benefits of the proclamation, he may be
admitted to take the oaths, and receive his pardon in form."

This generoiis notice to such of the loyal Americans who
have either too much laziness or cowardice to attempt to enter

.' Rirington's Gazette, January 31.

' This proclamation was published in December, l'?80, and ofTered pardon to
certain persons who would return to their allegiance.

1781.] EXPEDITION TO MOEEISAiaA. 379

the British lines, wc are afraid will not, even at this favorable
period, excite them to activitj. Old Dillington, Delancey,
or some of those characters, may desire to repose in the bosom
of their miich-injm-ed king, bnt Parsons' keeps too severe a
scrutiny over that class of cattle, to admit of their joining in
active ser\'ice against the Americans. We hear of but one
person who wishes to take the benefit of the Commissioners'
ofter, and that is Old Peggy "Warner," who wishes to obtain
some money she loaned Arnold a short time before he took his
late hasty and uncivil leave of West Point.

The stupidity of such productions as the late one of the
Commissioners, cannot be estimated. What persons, other
than fools, Avill accept a pardon, the conditions of which are to
be settled after they return to allegiance ? Not one ! The
Americans are not so blear-eyed that they cannot divine the
future, and note the consequences of their present actions. On
the one hand, the glorious prospect is not far distant of enjoy-
ing in peace, in safety, the inestimable blessings of civil and
political liberty, secured under the most excellent constitu-
tion formed by themselves, and supported with unshaken for-
titude, through every hazard, and against every danger. On
the other, a base return to the most barbarous of masters, with
the dreadful, though certain, expectation of seeing all the
eflects of British clemency — halters for the most virtuous and
brave ; chains, whips, and scourges for their remaining breth-
ren, enforced with all the horrors of Tory revenge, sanctified
by the exertion of suj)reme legislation in the Parliament, in-
flamed by resentment, and rendered familiar by a long series
of cruelty, to every idea of inhumanity.'

Jancaey 25. — ^The Americans, under General Parsons, have
just returned from a successful expedition to Morrisania, where,
in the night and morning of Monday last, (22d,) j,^ edition to
they surprised and took prisoners sixty or seventy Momsania.
Tories, and burnt a considerable nimibcr of huts. They also

' General Barsons, commanding the Americans in Westchester, New York.
' See New Jersey Journal, October 25, 1*780.

" Kivington's Gazette, January 24; New Jersey Gazette, August 22; and
Cliffs Diary.

380 DIAEY OF THE REVOLUTION. [1781.

passed to Frog's JSTeck and destroyed some stores.' The fol-
lowing is a detailed account of the affair : — Major-General
Heath having reinforced the troops stationed on the lines with
five additional companies, on the morning of the 20th, Lieuten-
ant Hull marched from Crompond to North Castle, under pre-
tence of making a large forage near the enemy's lines ; all the
teams in this part of the country having been previously col-
lected for the purpose. The same evening he was joined by
a small company of New York levies, commanded by Lieu-
tenant Mosier, who had been for a considerable time stationed
on the lines, and had acted in conjunction with the troops
under his command. Cajjtain Honeywell, likewise, with
about eighty mounted volunteers, joined the detachment, and
was posted on the different roads on Lieutenant Hull's front
and flanks, to prevent either inhabitants or deserters giving
intelligence to the enemy of his movements.

On the next evening the following disposition was made
and communicated to officers : — Major Maxwell M'ith two
conijDanies, commanded by Captains Dix and J. "Williams,
was directed to take a position near the redoubt number eight,
which, by the best intelligence, was guarded by a hundred
regulars, to prevent a sally on the troops designed to act
against Morrisania, capture any of the enemy who should at-
tempt to fly there for security, and destroy a pontoon bridge
of communication, constructed over Harlaem Creek, which
was covered by the cannon in the redoubt.

Captain "White, with his own company, and a small party
of militia, was to advance to Delancey's Bridge, surprise, if
possible, a siibaltern's guard posted at that place, and after
leaving a sufficient force to secure the pass for the troops on
the west side of the Bronx, then to act against the enemy at
West Farms.

Captain Prichard, with his company, and Lieutenant Mo-
sier's levies, had directions to proceed to Frog's Neck, with a
view of surprising the enemy stationed in that quarter.

Captains Dennet and Benton, witli their companies, were

' New Jersey Gazette, January 31.

1781.] EXPEDITION TO MOEEISAOTA. 381

to be posted at Williams' Bridge, to observe the motions of
tbe enemy on the road leading from King's Bridge, rei^ulse
them if they attempted to cross, and at sunrise take up the
bridge, retire to East Chester, and join the troops posted at
that place to cover the retreat of the operating force.

Three companies, under the command of Captains Fox, S.
Williams, and Dorrance, with the principal part of the volmi-
teer horsemen, were to proceed to Morrisania, destroy the
enemy's huts, and act as circumstances might require. Proper
guides were appointed to the difierent detachments, and a
number of horsemen to keep up a line of inteUigencc. Par-
ticular places were likewise pointed out for the different com-
mands to break off from the column, and the time of attack
was fixed at half-past three o'clock in the morning. After
executing the different orders at the several posts, all the de-
tachments on the west side of the Bronx had orders to retire
to Delancey's Bridge, precisely at daylight, for the purpose of
gaining East Chester early in the mornmg.

The disposition having been thus settled, the morning of
the 21st the troops were put in motion in one column, and
proceeded down the road leading by Yoiing's, from thence
through Mile Square, until their arrival nearly opposite King's
Bridge, when it was thought advisable to take the fields, to
avoid the enemy's patrols on the different roads. On the ar-
rival of Lieutenant Hull near the princijjal part of the huts at
Morrisania, all the detachments having been made agreeable
to orders, tlie troops met "u-ith an unexpected obstruction,
which he was apjjrehensive would have defeated his plan. A
small creek (over which was a bridge) had been swelled by a
very heavy rain the night and morning of the 21st, to such a
height, and so filled with broken ice, as rendered the passage
excessively difiicnlt. Determined, however, to make the at-
tempt, the infantr}' was ordered to mount behind the horse-
men, and in the course of fifteen minutes, about seventy were
carried over, which, with the horse, were thought a sufiicient
force to effect the business in that quarter, and, as not only this
detachment, but Major Maxwell's command, "were obliged to
return the same way to gain Delancey's Bridge, it was thought

382 DIAKY OF THE EEVOLUTION. [1781.

an object of the utmost consequence that this pass should be
secured, and the remainder of the troops were ordered to take
a position for the purpose. Tlie noise unavoidably occasioned
in passing tliis creek, was lieard by the British on the other
side, who immediately fired an alarm, which prevented the
surprise being so complete as was designed. The infantry and
horse were ordered to advance, and after capturing a number
of the enemy, all the huts in that quarter were destroyed.

After this service was performed, that detachment returned,
and being joined by Major Maxwell, who had destroyed the
bridge over Harlacm Creek, and indeed executed every part
of his orders. Lieutenant Hull proceeded with all tlie troops
then joined, to Delancey's Bridge, where Captain White had
forced the guards, and was in possession of the j^ass, over
which the troops retreated with little or no loss, although the
British had collected in considerable force, and were attempt-
ing to regain it.

On Hull's arrival at Westchester, Captain Prichard, who
had made the attempt on Frog's jSTeck, joined the main body.
As he was passing over the causeway, the guard posted for its
defence fired on him, which gave the alarm, and prevented
his success being as complete as was expeected ; he, however,
charged the guard, wounded one, and captured six. On his
way to Captain Simmons' quarters, he fell in with a patrol, one
of which was killed, and two made prisoners. When he ar-
rived, every man had left the house, and concealed themselves
in the woods. After scouring the jSTcck, and capturing a
number of prisoners, he returned, and in repassing the cause-
way, Ensign Thompson was unfortimately killed. Tlie objects
of the enterprise having been thus completed, it became neces-
sary for the Americans to retreat to East Chester, as fast as
their very great fatigue would admit. For this pui-pose a dis-
position was made, and the prisoners, which consisted of about
fifty, with the cattle and horses, were ordered between the
front guard and main body.

As soon as the line of march commenced, the British ap-
peared on the flanks and rear of the Americans, and began a
scattering fire. Dispositions were immediately made, by re-

1781.] EXECUTION OF STEPHEN BAlk. 383

inforcing tlie rear and flank guards, to secure tlie column, and
annoy the enemy as miicli as possible after so long and severe
a marcli. The enemy being continually reinforced, and their
lire incessantly increasing, rendered it necessary for the troops
to move exceedingly slovs^, and for the rear and flank guards
to be increased, and ordered to positions best calculated for tlie
purpose.

On Hull's arrival near East Chester, he foimd such a dis-
position made of the troops under the command of General
Parsons, and measures so judiciously adopted, as efi'ectually
secured his retreat, and gave him an opportunity of placing
himself under the orders of that general. What number of the
enemy fell, either in the night attack, or on the retreat, is un-
certain ; it must, however, have been considerable. Fifty-two
of Colonel Delancey's corps were made prisoners, between
thirty and forty large huts built for their quarters and a quan-
tity of forage, were destroyed. A large number of horses and
cattle were likewise brought off.

Much credit is due to Major Maxwell for the exactness
with which he executed his particular orders, and for his gen-
eral good conduct dui-ing the whole exjjedition. The patience
and fortitude of the soldiers in tlie execution of so severe a ser-
vice, and their order and bravery when attacked by the enemy,
place their conduct in a most honorable point of view. The
conduct of Captain Honeywell, and the Kefugees under his
command, deserve particular commendation.'

Jantjaey 26. — Last night, was executed at Bird's Point,
Bergen county, in the province of New Jersey, pursuant to his
sentence, Stephen Ball, a 6])j ; he was very active
in the execution of Tliomas Long, a refugee from
Jersey, who suffered death in that province in the year 1779.
Ball was apprehended on Staten Island by a party of refugees."

' Report of Lieutenant-Colonel William Hull to General Parsons in the New
Jersey Gazette, February 21.

' Rivington's Gazette, February 3.

384 DIAJJT OF THE EEVOLTJTION. [1781.

Lsr the late excursion, wliicli General Parsons made to Mor-
risania, Major Oliver Lawrence being detached with a recon-
oiiver Lawrence noitring party under the command of Colonel
and Col. Dciancey. Q^^^^ accidentally met with Colonel James Delan-
ccy, who taking the major for one of his officers, abruptly ac-
costed him : " D n jou, what are you doing there ? don't

you see the rebels just on your back? " Major Lawrence, in
order to decoy him, replied : " My dear colonel, pray give me
your assistance ; my men are in the greatest confusion, and
I can't rally them." Upon which Delancey innocently rode up
until he came within a few rods of the major; when unfortu-
nately one of the major's party, having G. "W". on his cap,
rising from belimd a stone fence, where they were secreted,
discovered to the colonel his mistake ; upon which he imme-
diately wheeled about, put spurs to his horse, and preferring
the danger of a broken neck to the fire of his enemy, leaped
down a craggy precipice, exclaiming, when he first perceived
his error — " Damn you, Oliver Lawrence, I know you." '

Jaotjaet 31. — ^Tms morning, his Majesty's ship L-is arrived
at New York from the Chesapeake, with the following account
Arnoi.rs Expedi- ^^ ^^^^ proceedings of the British forces in Yir-
tion to Virginia, gjnia, uudcr Brigadier-General Arnold : — " The
fleet having been separated by a hard gale of wind on the 26th
and 2ith December, rejoined off the capes of Virginia, and
aiTived in Hampton road on the 30th, except three transports
and one armed vessel, with vipwards of four hundred troops.

" On the 31st of December the troops were embarked in
small vessels and boats, (part of which were captured on their
arrival,) and proceeded up James Eiver, with the Hope and
Swift armed vessels. On the 3d of January, in the evening,
they anchored at Flour de Hxmdred, about half a mile from a
battery of three eighteen and one twenty-four pounders, and
one brass eight-inch howitzer, wliich only killed one man.
Lieutenant-Colonel Simcoe,° with two hundred men, landed
and took possession of the battery, A\-ithout opposition, spiked

' New York Packet, February 1. 'Of the Queen's Rangers.

1781.] THE VIEGmiA EXPEDITION. 385

the iron guns, and brought off the howitzer. On the 4th the
fleet proceeded to Westover, aboiit one hundred and forty
miles from the capes of Yirginia, where the troops were im-
mediately landed, and marched to Kichmond, Avhich they
reached withoiit opposition ; the militia that was collected
having everywhere fled on their approach. From hence Lieu-
tenant-Colonel Simcoe marched with a detachment of the
army to Westham, where the troops burnt and destroyed one
of the finest foundries for cannon in America, and a large
quantity of cannon, stores, &c. General Arnold, on his arrival
at Kichmond, found there large quantities of tobacco, salt,
rum, sail cloth, and merchandise, and that part which was
public property he destroyed.

" The public stores, &c., said to be at Petersburg, being
found on inquiry not an object worth attention, the ships only
were sent up within six miles of that place, from whence they
brought off some vessels, several having been previously sunk
by the rebels.

" Tlie troops having effected this service, marched back with
five very fine brass field-pieces, six-pounders, which they had
taken, and arrived at "Westover on the 7th, ha^nng performed
a march of sixty-six miles, through very heavy roads and ex-
cessive rains, in three days, in an enemy's country where they
were sometimes retarded for hours by the destruction of
bridges, &c.

" Tlie 8th, in the evening, Lieutenant-Colonel Simcoe was
detached with forty-two cavalry to Charles City Court House,
nine miles from Kichmond, where, with his usual address, he
surprised about two hundred of the enemy's cavalry and foot,
killed about twenty, and took eight prisoners, with the loss of
one man killed and three wounded. Captain Shanks, of the
Queen's Kangers, behaved on this, as on every other occasion,
with great bravery.

" On the 9th the army was joined by the troops in the
missing transports, and on the lOtli the whole fell down the
river to Flour de Hundred, where the general being informed
there was a party of six or eight hundi-ed rebels, under the
command of Baron Steuben, he landed with part of his troops,

386 DIAKY OF THE EEVOLUTION. [1781.

and sent Lieutenant-Colonel Simcoe, with three hnndred men,
about two miles to the cross roads, where the enemy were post-
ed ; Captain Hatch, who commanded the van-guard, having
with great gallantry drove in their piehet on the main body.
A very heavy fire from the rebels killed three men, and
wounded Captain Hatch, Ensign Sword, and about twenty
privates of the loyal American regiment, whose conduct on
this occasion does them great honor. They then charged the
enemy with such firmness and resolution, that they instantly
fled on all sides, and were pursued about two miles, but the
darkness of the night, badness of the roads, and a heavy shower
of rain falling about the time, put an end to the pursuit. On
their return, three pieces of heavy, and some light cannon,
with a quantity of stores taken from the enemy, were put on
board, and the troops embarked at four next morning. On the
11th, fell down the river, taking some stores on their way.
On the l-4th they anchored at Harding's Ferry, the troops,
horses, and artillery were landed, and on the 15th the army
marched to Smithfield, on Pagan Creek, seventeen miles from
thence, where a quantity of provisions was collected.

" On the 16th, Lieutenant-Colonel Simcoe, with two hun-
dred men, was detached to Mackie's Mills, three miles from
Smithfield, to dislodge about two hundred of the enemy who
had taken post there, and who fled upon his approach. Major
Gordon was at the same time thrown over the creek to cut off
their retreat, but they took the woods. On the ISth the army
moved to Sleepy Hole on JSTansemond Kiver, which Lieutenant-
Colonel Simcoe passed with his men, and at two o'clock in
the morning they began to cross the ferry. They were all
over by eleven, and marched fifteen miles. "When they were
within five miles of Portsmouth, Lieutenant-Colonel Simcoe
was detached thither, and arrived at ten the next morning,
time enough to prevent the town from being burnt, as threat-
ened by the rebels ; and on the 20th, in the morning, the
whole army, to the great joy of the inliabitants, marched into
Portsmouth in good health and high spirits.

" General Arnold expresses himself much indebted to Com-
modore Symonds, Captain Evans, and the other officers of his

1781.] A TETJE WOMAN. 387

Majesty's ships on this service, for the great assistance he has
received from them. And he at the same time speaks in the
liighest terms of the behavior of the oiScers and men of Loth
navy and army during the whole expedition." '

Febeuaet 8. — Captain S , Litely returned from America

to London with an express for government, relates, among many
other atfecting and imcommon incidents, among
the royalists, as well as in the American army,
the following nan-ative of tenderness, evincing to what a height
the purity of passion can arrive in the bosom of a virtuous
woman, uncorrupted by an erroneous education, or the de-
pra\'ity of fashionable life : — A young lady, long a^dvertised
in our piiblic papers by her distressed family, having forsaken
her father's house in "Wales, in the beginning of the American
war, leaving only a letter behind her to bid them be assured
her honor and life should be secure in her own care, followed
her lover (a cornet of horse) to whom she had engaged herself
privately, during his recruiting in the town in which she lived.
She married him the hour she arrived at New York, where
his regiment was at that time. Her elegance and beauty in-
flaming the breast of the commander, as well as of those inferior
in command in the regiment, her husband became the pointed
mark of their malice as well as envy.

The cornet only exceeded the bounds of the country in
search of some medicinal herbs for his beloved wife ; the trespass
was aggi'avated into a crime ; he was indignantly sentenced to
an ignominious confinement, which, by reason of the dampness
of his prison, immediately threatened his life, and hers who
had closely attended him during his confinement. She re-
ceived a message whilst under these circumstances, from the
general, infoi-ming her that if she would leave her husband,
her presence availing him little, that she would find an asylum
in his protection, and every thing that would be advantageous
to her, would she listen to his passion. She replied by an
opened letter, pixbliclj^ read through the camp, in words as fol-

Rivington's Gazette, February V.

388 DIAEY OF TUE KEVOLUTION. [1781.

lows : — " Unwortliy commander, tliongh I would die on the
rack without a groan to save my husband, yet I Avill not forfeit
my honor, and dishonor him to save us both. Think not, vain
man, that misery, pain, indigence, and chastity, cannot inhabit
the same bosom together ; know for once you are mistaken,
and that being conscious nothing in my conduct could encour-
age that presumption. The insult is cruel, base, and iinmanly.
Molest me no more, nor dare to violate my presence. These
languid arms, scarce able to lift themselves in tender offices for
my husband, my wrongs may animate to avenge his cause and
mine." The commander (who in this instance only stands im-
peached for want of honor and humanity) stood struck with
remorse ; he went to her, threw himself at her feet, humiliating
himself before the companions of his guilt, avowing it and
accusing himself and them for the disgraceful and precipitate
step that had ruined a virtuous couple, promising her that for
her sake he would ever reverence in future her whole sex.
The husband was honorably discharged, and soon after pro-
moted, and is now major in the regiment. Tliis virtuous cou-
ple enjoy the veneration of all the corps, interi'upted only in
their happiness by a languishing state the major's imprison-
ment has occasioned. She lately has lain in, and a want of
fresh provisions having happened just before the officer left
the camp in Charleston, the major being in a state of weak-
ness for want of proper nutriment, he left the lovely heroine
supporting her husband with the milk of her chaste breast,
that ever heaved with conjugal love, the innocent pledge of
their love having died a few days after its birth. Surely such

instances as these, and such of the justly celebrated Mrs. ,

should make us look round with contempt on the paltry pas-
sions and interested motives that connect and disunite our
fashionable lovers in high life. "What sensations can they ex-
perience in their most enviable liours, that equal the luxury of
a virtuous aifection ? Eiches and honor, like every other grati-
fication of appetite and taste, by use, fall into satiety and lan-
guor ; Ave look round to the deserted paths of nature and vir-
tuous attachment, for a relief from that lassitude and ennui ;
but dissipation and habit have too early extinguished or ab-

1781.] CORNWALLIS' CEUELTT. 389

sorbed those finer feelings that give raptnre and enthusiasm,
with durable rational enjoyment, to the humble, retired, and
undepraved.'

Febkuaet 22. — By letters of a very late date from I^cw
York, says a writer in England, we are informed that Sir Henry
Clinton has been attempting to negotiate a peace oenorais Lee ana

.,. ., n. . ? 1 Stirling tampered

With America by ottering the most advantageous with.

terms to many of her leaders. Several of the American officers
of rank, while prisoners, such as Lee, Stirling, &c., were tam-
pered with on the same subject, but all without effect, as
"Washington, who is now more in the French interest than ever,
opposes every attempt towards such accommodations short of
independence. As to General Lee, he is noAV neglected and
despised even by the Americans, who never had any opinion
of his fidelity to their cause, after he was taken prisoner ; nay,
some of the most violent have gone so far as to charge him
with being ever since in the British interest, althougli they
have never been able to prove it."

A WErrEE in England says : — " A Scotch officer, lately ar-
rived from America, hath assm-ed some particular friends, that
on the day of the action near Camden, Lord Com- comwaiiis-s
wallis's orders to the army were : ' To take no c™eity.
prisoners in the field of battle, but to put all to the bayonet
without distinction, however supplicating for mercy they may
be fovmd ! ' (which accounts for the great and disproportion-
ate slaughter made among the American troops,) but, after the
action, and on the day following, his lordship gave leave for
receiving alive such of the rebels as applied for quarter !
Bella, hoi'rida hella ! Is it possible that such a kind of war
can be approved of by a Christian Prince, reigning over a free
and civilized people, once as renowned for humanity as for
their valor in war ? If the fact be as thus represented, Avhat
would be the consequences if the fortune of war should render
that same noble lord a prisoner in the hands of the American

' Pennsylvania Packet, July 7. ^ Upcott, vi. 181.

390 DIAET OF THE EETOLUTION. [lYSl.

army ? In the rage of revenge following his conduct, they
might honorably entomb him alive, with a number of the putrid
carcases he had so iuhumauly butchered, to be his companions
during the time that starvation was finishing his wretched
existence. Most Eeverend Father in God, Prelate of Canter-
bury, highest spiritiial teacher and preacher of mercy and
peace, under the blessed Jesus, Lamb of God ! know thoii.
Eight Eeverend and Christian sir, (who seem to be not many
stages on this side the bar of justice at which all mortals must
appear,) that this human butcher is thy nephew ! and that
until now, in est dementi forth ! had ever been considered as
an established maxim. Doth such inhumanity meet with
your approbation ? " '

Maech 1. — ^Tnis day will be memorable in the annals of
America to the last posterity, for the final ratification in Con-
gress of the articles of confederation and perpetual union be-
tween the States.'

This great event, which will confound our enemies, fortify
us against their arts of seduction, and frustrate their plans of
The Confederation '^i'^ision, was announced to the public at twelve

Eatifled. o'clock. Under the discharge of the artillery on the
land and the cannon of the shipping in the Delaware. The
bells were nang, and every manifestation of joy shown on this
occasion. The Ariel frigate, commanded by the gallant Paul
Jones, fired a fexi, de joie, and was beaiitifully decorated with
a variety of streamers in the day, and ornamented with a
brilliant appearance of lights in the night.

At two o'clock in the afternoon his Excellency the presi-
dent of Congress received the congratulations of the legislative
and executive bodies of Pennsylvania, of the civil and military
ofiacers, and many of the principal citizens, who partook of a
collation provided on this happy occasion. Tlie evening was
ushered in by an elegant exhibition of fireworks.

> New Jersey Journal, March 7.

- By this instrument each State retains its sovereignty, freedom, and independ-
ence ; and the States severally enter into a firm league of friendship ivith each
other for their common defence, the security of their liberties, and their mutual
general welfare. — Thacher.

17S1.] HTOBEL AT LLOTD's NECK. 391

Tlras has the iiuioii, began by necessity, been indissolubly
cemented. Thus America, (like a well-constructed arch, whose
parts harmonizing and mutually supporting each other, are the
more closely united the greater the pressure upon them,) is grow-
ing up in war into greatness and consequence among the nations.
But Britain's boasted wealth and grandeur are crmnbling to
pieces, never to be again united. Her empire of the ocean is
dividing among her insulted neighbors ; and if she persists in
her present self-destroying system, there will be a time when
scarcely a monument of her former glory will remain. The
fragments of her empire, and its history, will then be of little
other use to mankind, but like a landmark to warn against the
shoals and rocks on which her political navigators had ship-
wrecked that infatuated nation.'

An American correspondent says, that the officers of the
army in New York, concerned in the management of the theatre
there, form a body like any other company of T^^^t^^j^
comedians, and share the profits arising from New York,
their exhibitions. To people in England it may seem mean
for British officers to perform for hire ; but in New York, neces-
saries are so extremely dear, that an inferior officer, who has no
other resources than his pay, undergoes more difficiilties than
the common soldier ; and circumstanced as many brave men
now are in America, siich an exertion of their talents to increase
their incomes, deserves the greatest encouragement.^

Maech 10. — Captain Hubbel, of the Associated Loyalists,
has had another encounter with the pious Presbyterians at
Lloyd's Neck.'' This spirited officer, with his Hubbeut
little band of true Englishmen, has made three at- ""'"i'' ^''*-
tempts to effect the business pointed out to them. In the first,
the weather obliged them to return to the Neck without land-
ing. Their second attempt was on the 2Sth of February last,

' Pennsylvania Packet, March 3. ° Fpcott, ri. 231.

^ Smythe's Journal ; Lloyd's Neck is a promontory between Oyster Bay and
Huntingfou harbor, Long Island. '

392 DIARY OP TIDE REVOLUTION. [1781.

when contrary winds and bad weather again prevented the
General Wolfe (an armed schooner, furnished by his Excellen-
cy the commander-in-chief, for the use of the board) from cross-
ing the Sound. Captain Hubbel then manned four whale
boats, and proceeded to Compo, in Connecticut, where the
party landed, and being fired upon from two guard houses, the
rebels were immediately driven from them, and the guard houses
burnt.

By this time the alarm guns were fired, and the militia
mustered to the number of three hundred, as the loyalists were
well informed, and therefore it was thought best to retire to
their boats, in which they proceeded to Five Mile River,
where they again landed, and marched some distance into the
country ; but the beacons being lighted, and the militia every-
where collected. Captain Hubbel drew ofi' his men, and re-
turned to Long Island the next morning.

On the morning of the 4th instant, the party were embark-
ed on board the General Wolfe, but the wind coming ahead,
it was again determined to man four boats with between thirty
and forty of the best men, which was immediately done, and
the party crossed to McKenzie's Point, where, leaving a sufli-
cient guard with the boats. Captain Hubbel moved with the
rest two miles up Mill River, where they eff'ectually destroyed
two mills, with about two hundred barrels of flour, collected
there, as they were told, for the French at Rhode Island.

After eftecting this business and collecting a few sheep,
they returned to their boats, and proceeded to Routon River,
and again landed about sunrise, and marched into the country
to a rebel guard house, which they burned. They also de-
stroyed a salt work, and collected some cattle, but finding the
rebels embodying against them, they retreated to their boats,
being fired at by the rebels, and landed on one of the Norwalk
Islands, where they expected the General Wolfe would have
joined them, but being disappointed, they were obliged to pass
the night on the island. About break of day they discovered
a large barge and three whale boats, full manned with conti-
nentals and militia, rowing towards them ; but on being chal-
lenged by the loyalists, they turned and landed on an island

17S1.] MLT) AMMUNITION. 393

within a few rods of the one occupied by Captain ITubbel, and
began a heavy fire on the loyalists and their boats, which were
tnrned up on the shore to shelter the men during the night.
In the face of this fire, however, they launched their boats,
and effected their retreat without any loss or damage, except
a few shot holes through their boats.'

In the late encounter between Captain Hubbel and the
Jonathans of Connecticut, at Lloyd's Neck, the latter used
balls of baked mud filled with bits of iron, and ^^^

pieces of rusty spikes, instead of bullets. This AmmuBition.
shows the state of the rebels' boasted " unbounded supply of
ammunition," and at the same time accounts for the little ex-
ecution done by that pious herd in their conflicts with the
Britons.''

Maech 14. — A WEiTEK in the London Public Advertiser,^
gives the following reflections on the catastrophe of Major
Andre : — " As nothing that concerns humanity An Ensiish view

,. .,?. -r...,i of Andre's

can ever be imagined loreign to a Jiritish breast, Execution,
any prefatory apology for a discussion of the degree of right or
of wrong in the treatment of the unfortunate Major Andre,
may very justly be considered as an insult to the reader, in its
implication of a diffidence of his heart.

" But even such a discussion is not the only motive of this
address ; another capital one extorts it ; a wish to satisfy the
public that the Marquis La Fayette, then in the colony camp,
and who, in all probability, irresistibly instigated Mr. Wash-
ington to the perpetration of that horrid crime, has therein not
less wounded the honor of France than the feelings of humanity ;
a point which, when clearly established, cannot even displease
those of the colonists themselves who, unfortunately, under the
force of a cruel imposture, have been betrayed into such exe-
crable lengths of criminality, as from their very souls they
would othendse probably have detested. A presumption this,

' Rivington's Gazette, March 14. ' Smythe's Journal, 108.

' Under the sitrnature of " A Briton."

394: DIAItT OF THE EEVOLtlTION. [1Y81.

wliicli does not, however, extend to tlie incendiaries of the re-
bellion themselves, who must he too case-hardened to receive
an impression of truth and reason.

" First is to the pretended right of sacrificing the major
to the rigor of martial law. True it is that general usage or
practice constitutes the common law of war ; and according
to that, certain it is that spies when taken, are liable to be put
to death. But according to the best information, the laws
of war, in the true spirit of military honor, make a very
justifiable difference between spies ; a designation which in
itself interposes no disgrace or derogation from the highest
rank: at least I never heard it imputed as such, to one
of the greatest kings that ever illustrated the English na-
tion. Alfred, in the Danish camp, in the disguise of a harper,
even accepting gratuities in that character, assumed for the
laudable purpose of gaining useful intelligence against the
enemies of his country, was not, perhaps, in that adventure,
less Alfred the Great, than when pompously seated on his
throne. Nor has he been the only prince that personally
risked a stratagem of that kind. This is only mentioned to in-
validate that cruel and unfair conclusion, that if the major
demeaned himself to the personage of a spy, be was bound to
take a spy's fate, an ignominious death.

" Justice, severe justice, (it has been said,) making no dis-
tinction of persons, no wrong was done to him ; the law of Avar
took his forfeited life. But this is, in general, false. Tliat
very law of usage leaves a latitude to discretion in favor of a
very jiist, and consequently an honorable distinction.

"The persons who fall under the description of spies,
liable, on capture, to a summary death, are in general imder-
stood to be peasants, or of the very lowest class of men ; not
that the life of one in such a class is not, in the eye of justice,
held intrinsically as sacred as that of the highest personage ;
but here lies the difference : A peasant, alow-lived mercenary,
taken as a spy, is currently supposed to be actuated merely by
the promise or prospect of a sordid fee or reward for the mis-
chief implied by his errand. lie is looked upon as having
gone out of his line of life for a vile hire, without a spark of

1781.] REMARKS ON ANDEe's EXECUTION. 395

principle or of lionor, and is accordingly treated and executed
Avith very little ceremony. Whereas, generals or commission-
ed officers, tliongh taken in the very attempt at snch a service,
are, unless some very aggravating circumstance should attend
the act, not supposed to deserve any such ignominious treat-
ment as usage appropriates to the lower ranks of life. The
difference of the motive discriminates the imdertaking. Their
commission, if not an authority, is at least according to that
usage which forms the military code of honor, an admissible
excuse, and entitles them to the courtesy of a generous enemy.
Thence their being commonly considered as only prisoners of
war.

" Here, should any false distinction of rank have been made,
any officer may easily correct the error, and will surely forgive
it in favor of the innocence of the i:itentioner. This was cer-
tainly not to mislead, but to put the reader on his own exami-
nation of the plea adduced to justify one of the most atrocious
crimes that has occurred in the course of this ever execrable
war — the miirder in cold blood of so estimable a member of the
British community. And for what ? For the being taken in
the very act of recovering a British subject to his own proper
nation, he having in all truth no other. It was not an enemy
he had been treating with to betray his own countrymen, but
with a relenting siibject of Britain, to concert the deliverance
of himself and country, enslaved to a tyranny the more fierce
and bloody for its being founded on imposture, treason, rebel-
lion, and ingratitude, all sanctified with the stale pretence of
liberty, coupled with the nick-name of America. Oh ! shock-
ing absurdity ! Britain, we all know, is in Europe ; but did ever
Britain pretend to be Em-ope, as the British colonies have as-
sumed to be America ? They modestly christen that part of
our country America, and to heighten the joke, the French
khig piously stands godfather. lleanwhile, such is the
boasted American liberty, which this unfortunate officer found
to his cost could add new horrors to the face of war, and that
war, too, a civil war !

" "We now bring home this barbarous, cowardly act more
especially to the Count de Eochambeau, or to any French

396 DIARY OF THE EEVOLUTION. [1781.

officer then in the camp. None of them conld have ignorance
to plead of a fact that was not of a nature to be forgotten by
the Frencli nation ; a fact, the notoriety of which, ought to
overwhelm with confusion whoever of them that did not dis-
dain to instigate, or but to approve the perpetration of so black
a crime by a chief who ought to have been particularly ob-
noxious to them, as Frenchmen, for a precedent action of his ;
an action of this Defender of American Liberty, that proves
him worthy of such a cause, as the cause is indubitably worthy
of such a defender. Be the reader the judge on the follow-
ing narrative, principally taken from the preface of Mons.
Thomas, a celebrated French writer, to an epic poem founded
on a fact which there are, I presume, many colonists actu-
ally ready to authenticate on their own knowledge or well-
groimded belief. But should I have been misinformed, I have
only the public's pardon to ask, not Mr. "Washington's, as no
wrong will have been done him, since nothing could now add
to his giiilt.

" It was in the year 1753, that in consequence of various
disputes about the limits of the British and the French colonies,
disputes which at length brought on a war between the two
nations, that a British officer (Mr. Washington) had, near the
Monongahela River, and the Great Meadows, built a fort on
ground falsely, perhaps, claimed by the French. Consequent-
ly, a Mons. Contrecceur, who commanded a body of troops
posted on the banks of the Ohio, sent to Mr. Washington an
officer of distinction with a letter, warning him to withdraw
his force from the French territories. Mr. Washington pre-
tended, at first, to comply with the summons, but, in fact, on
the expectation of being soon attacked, he hurried on the
building of the fort which he had begun, and gave it the name
of Fort Necessity.

" Mons. de Contrecceur, uncertain of the English having

withdrawn, despatched on the 20th of May, Mons. de Jumon-

ville, a French officer, with an escort of thirty

men, in order to ascertain that point, and if he

found them not removed, ho was to give the English officer a

second summons of the like import as the first. The officer

1781.] DEATH OF JUMONTILLE. 397

proceeded -n-itli tliis not nnnecessaiy escort, in a country at no
time absolutely clear of savages. At a small distance from
the fort, lie was, on a sudden, surrounded by some British pro-
vincials, who kept a terrible firing on him. Witli his hand he
made a sign to the officer, holding up his credentials, and de-
sired to bo heard. Tlie firing ceased, they surrounded him ;
he announced his mission, or character of envoy, and began
reading aloud the summons of which he was the bearer, but
had scarce got half way through it before he was shot dead.

" ' Such (says the French ^vriter) was the answer given by
a nation that pretends itself a nation of philosophers, to the
credentials of an envoy whose person is rendered sacred by
a title in all ages and in all countries considered as inviolable.'
Tlie firing then immediately recommenced. The party that
escorted Jumonville being surrounded, eight of them were
killed, and fell by the side of their mm-dered chief, who lay
weltering in his blood. Tlae rest were forced to surrender
prisoners, one Canadian only escaping to carry the liorrid news
of a fact which scandalized even the savages themselves, to
whom such a crime was a novelty.

" On this advice, however, Mons. de Contrecoeur, surely
not unjustly provoked to revenge this shocking assassination,
sent a detachment under the command of Mons. de Yilliers,
brother to Jiimonville. Tliis officer, animated at once by na-
ture and by duty to his country, had to revenge the murder
of a brother, and the outrage to his nation. Tlie indignant
savages served him for guides. On the 3d of July he came
to the spot where the assassination had been committed, a
spot still stained with his brother's blood, and where the bodies
of the slaughtered French still lay nnburied. "What a sight !
On this the fort was-|)resently invested, attacked, and reduced
to capitulate.

" Tlie express orders to Mons. de Villiers having been to use
no furtlier violence than would precisely serve to force the Brit-
ish to evacuate the French territories, and in general, for liim to
a\oid any extremities that might bring on a rupture between
the two crowns ; that officer adhered so punctually to his in-
structions, that under such trying provocations, he had hu-

398 DIAKY OF THE EEVOLTJTION. [1Y81.

inanity and moderation enongli to protect even the murderers
of bis brother against the rage of the savages, who ardently-
sought to sacrifice them to liis resentment.

" It is on these incidents that Mons. Thomas has built an
epic poem, imder the title of Jumonville, a poem in which Mr.
Washington could not well be the hero, on any other footing
than that of the infernal spirit ia Milton's Paradise Lost. The
author, then, without deigning to name him, throws the whole
odium of the action on the British nation itself.

" Here, it is but fair to obviate the candid reader's justly
presumable objection, that after all, this viUanous murder
might only be, on the part of Mr. "Washington, an innocent
mistake, or, at the worst, a rash procedure. True, and great
reason there would be for admitting such a plea. Unfortu-
nately for it, oiir papers, our magazines of that time, all call it,
without mincing the word, a murder, which had it been only
an error, would have been in them a gross injustice. Where-
as, as things were, they had the clearest aiithority on their
side. From whom? Even from Mr. Washington himself,
who, in the articles of capitulation, expressly signed his con-
fession of having assassinated (assassine, that was the term)
Mons. Jumonville. Will it here by any shameless caviller be
said, that he was at the time under a compulsion of bodily
fear, to sign such a confession? May be so. But here I
would willingly ask Mr. Washington one question, and leave
it to himself to answer : Does he believe, that, in the case of
being innocent, Major Andre, that gallant officer whom he
has so barbarously mm'dered, would, in that situation, have
signed such a cowardly confession? Alas! when was cow-
ardice not allied to cruelty ?

" What high heroic deeds of arms this great foimder of
Americmi Empire has since produced to wash out that stain,
will doiibtless adorn the history of that glorious epoch; a
history that will immortalize the prowess with which this col-
ony Fabius, who having by dint of being beaten by his friends
the French, learned the snug art of spinning out a rebel war
against his own nation, could, without remorse, imbrue his
hands in the blood of his perfectly innocent countryman.

1Y81.] LA FAYETTE CEITICIZED. 399

whose object indisjiiitablj was not the subjugation, but the
deliverauce of the colonies from the chains of imposture, trea-
son, and tjTanny, to recover them in short to then- country, to
restore them with honor to themselves.

" But how will La Fayette acquit himself to his court, for
the mean and infamous instigation of Mr. "Washington to so
base and inhuman a murder ? Tlie French are known to be a
generous enemy ; whenever the false views of their policy do
not blunt their natural sensibility to honor, they feel it nobly
and judge it rightly. Not a few of the worthiest of that na-
tion have been astonished at his most Christian Majesty's having
so degraded himself as to accept the lead of a miserably de-
luded and betrayed multitude in our colonies ; to give them,
too, the appellation of Dear Friends ; Avhile without puking he
can bear so miich as the idea of being styled their Great and
Good Ally ! Well may they say, '^;i verite, c'est scr'ause-
ment s' encanailler ? '

" At the worst, however. La Fayette may not impossibly
have to comfort him, the compliment paid him in some ballad
of the Pont !N"euf, set to a scurvy French tune, of his having
been iu the affair the chosen instrument of Pro\'idence to
revenge the death of an innocent French officer, by his influ-
encing his confessed assassin to the murder of an innocent Brit-
ish officer, while the aggravating circumstance of his being hi
own coimtryman may be reckoned in as interest for such a
debt of blood. ]S"or let it be disowned that relatively to Mr,
"Washington, our own nation is not entirely exempt for blame.
It was rather not over delicate, however useful he might at the
time have been thought, to suffer iu its service a man note
riously iinder such a scar, as that of his confessed assassination
"Wliat then less bad, in general, could be the retribution expected
from one capable of such a procedure? A retribution in
which there has, in particiilar, been too cruelly involved, the
catastrophe of a valuable British officer, into the balance
against whose life, (in his character of a loyal subject, had he
been even in the lowest rank,) to put the lives of thousands of
rebel, chiefs, or incendiary traitors, would be an indignity to
his memory. Unless, indeed, by a doctrine new and unheard

400 DIAET OF TirE KEVOLTJTION. [1781.

of, till the bhie code of Boston produced it, imposture could
give weight, rebellion, rank, and treason authority. But oh !
citizens of the British empire ! can it be a crime to any of you
to wish well to good old Britain ? which, in spite of foreign
enmity and domestic treason, may Heaven ever preserve,
great, liappy, and free ! A wish this, to which all the col-
onies might well say Amen ! since they are most naturally and
most cordially included in it." '

Maech 16. — Yesteeday morning an engagement was
brought on near Guilford Court House, between a small part of

Battle of ^^ American regulars, joined by a very considera-

Guiiford. jjjg body of militia, and most of General Cornwal-
lis's army." Early in the morning, the American reconnoitring
parties reported the enemy advancing on the Great Salisbury
road. Tlie army was drawn up in three lines : the front line
was composed of the ]!^orth Carolina militia, under the com-
mand of Generals Butler and Eaton ; the second line of Vir-
ginia militia, commanded by Generals Stevens and Lawson,
forming two brigades ; the third line, consisting of two bri-
gades, one of Virginia, and one of Maryland Continental troops,
connnanded by General Huger and Colonel Williams. Lieuten-
ant-Colonel Washington, with the di-agoons of the first and
third regiments, a detachment of light infantry, composed of
Continental troops, and a regiment of riflemen under Colonel
Lynch, formed a corps of observation for the security of the
flank ; Lieutenant-Colonel Lee, with his legion, a detachment
of light infantry and a corps of riflemen, under Colonel Camp-
bell, formed a corps of observation for the security of the left
flank.

The greater part of the country is a wilderness, with a few
cleared fields interspersed here and there. Tlie anny was
drawn up upon a large hill of ground surrounded by other
hills, the greater part of which was covered with timber and
thick underbrush. Tlie front line was posted, with two field-

Rivington's Gazette, March 14.

Letter in the New Jersey Gazette, April 4.

17S1.] BATTLE OF GUILFOKD. 401

pieces, just on the edge of the woods, and the back of a fence
which ran parallel with the line, with an open field db-ectly in
their front. Tlie second line was in the woods, about thi-ee
hundred yards in rear of the first, and the Continental troops
about three hundred yards in the rear of the second with a
double front, as the hill drew to a point where they were
posted, and on their right and left were two old fields.

In this position the Americans waited the approach of the
enemy, having previously sent off the baggage to the L'on
"Works, (about ten miles from Guilford Court House,) appointed
to rendezvous at in case of a defeat. Lieutenant-Colonel Lee,
with his legion, his infantry and part of his riflemen, met the
enemy, on their advance, and had a very severe skirmish witli
Lieutenant-Colonel Tarleton, in which the enemy sixffered
greatly. Captain Armstrong charged the British legion, and
cut down near thirty of their dragoons, but as they rein-
forced their advanced party, Lieutenant-Colonel Lee was
obliged to retire, and take his position in the line.

The action commenced by a cannonade, which lasted about
twenty minutes, when the enemy advanced in three columns ;
the Hessians on the right, the guards in the centre, and Lieu-
tenant-Colonel Webster's brigade on the left. Tlio whole
moved through the old fields to attack the North Carolina
brigades, who waited the attack until the enemy got within
about one hundred and forty yards, when part of them began
to fire ; but a considerable part left the groimd without firing at
all. The generals and field-ofiicers did all they could to in-
duce the men to stand their ground, but neither the advantage
of the position nor any other consideration could induce them
to stay. Generals Stevens and Lawson, and the field-ofiicers
of those brigades, were more successful in their exertions.
Tlie Virginia militia gave the enemy a warm reception, and
kept up a heavy fire for a long time, but being beaten back,
the action became general almost everywhere. The corj^s of
observation under Washington and Lee were warmly engaged
and did great execution. Li a word, the conflict was long and
severe, and the enemy only gained their point by superior dis-
cipline.

Vol. n.— 26

402 DIARY OF THE EEVOLUTION. [1781.

The enemy having broken the second Maryland regiment,
and turned our left flank, and got into the rear of the Virginia
brigade, and appearing to be gaining our right, which would
have encircled the whole of the Continental troops. General
Greene thought it most advisable to order a retreat. About
this time Lieutenant-Colonel Washington made a charge with
the horse npon a part of the brigade of guards, and the first
regiment of Marylanders, commanded by Colonel Gunb}-, and
seconded by Lieutenant-Colonel Howard, followed the horse
with their bayonets ; near the whole of this party fell a sacri-
fice. General Huger was the last that was engaged, and gave
the enemy a check.

Tlie Americans retreated in good order to the Eeedy Fork
River, crossed at the ford, about three miles from the field of
action, and there halted, and drew up the troops, nntil they col-
lected most of their stragglers. Tliey lost their artillery and
two ammunition wagons, (the greater jjart of the horses being
killed before the retreat began,) it being impossible to move the
pieces but along the great road. After collecting their strag-
glers, they retired to the Iron Works, where they now are.

From the best information, we learn the British, loss is
very great, not less in killed and wounded than six hundred
men, besides some few prisoners that the Americans brought
off.'

' General Greene's letter to Samuel Huntington ; and the New Jersey Journal,
April 11. An officer in General Greene's armj', in referring to this action, says:
" The enemy were so beaten that we should have disputed the victory could we
have saved our artiUery, but the general thought it was a necessary sacrifice. The
spirits of the soldiery would have been afi'ectcd if the cannon had been sent off
the field, and in this woody country cannon cannot always be sent off in a critical
moment.

"The general, by his abilities and good conduct, and by his activity and
bravery in the field, has gained the confidence and respect of the army and
country, to an amazing degree. You would, from the countenances of our men,
believe they had been decidedly victorious. They are in the highest spirits, and
appear most ardently to wish to engage the enemy again. Tlie enemy are much
embarrassed by their wounded.

" When we consider the nakedness of our troops, and of course their want of
discipline, their numbers, and the loose, irregular manner in which they come
into the field, I think we have done wonders. I rejoice at our success, and were

1781.] BRITISH ACCOUNT OF GTJILFOED. 403

Cornwallis, in his despatches to tlie British government, gives
the following detailed account of this battle : — " In jjursuance
of my intended -\i\&i\, I had encamped on the British Account of

1 . T ^ T -« r • 1 1 ">e Battle of

13th mstant, at the Quaker JVLeetmg, between the Guuford.
forks of Deep Kiver. On the 14th I received information that
General Eutler, with a body of North Carolina militia, and
the reinforcements from Virginia, said to consist of a Virginia
State regiment, a coi'ps of Virginia eighteen-month men, three
thousand Virginia militia and recruits for the Maryland line,
had joined General Greene, and tliat the whole army, which
was reported to amount to nine or ten thousand men, were
marching to attack the British troops. During the afternoon
intelligence was brought, which was confirmed In the night,
that he had advanced that day to Guilford, about twelve miles
from our camp. Being now persuaded that he had resolved
to hazard an engagement, (after detaching Lieutenant-Colonel
Hamilton with our wagons and baggage, escorted by his own
regiment, a detachment of one hundred infantry, and twenty
cavalry, towards Bell's Mill, on Deep Eiver,) I marched with
the rest of the corps at daybreak, on the morning of the 15th,
to meet the enemy, or attack them in their encampment.
About four miles from Guilford our advanced guard, com-
manded by Lieutenant-Colonel Tarleton, fell in with a corps
of the enemy, consisting of Lee's legion, some back mountain
men, and Virginia militia, which he attacked with his usual
good conduct and spirit, and defeated ; continuing our
march, we found the rebel army posted on rising ground,
about a mile and a half from the Court House. The prisoners
taken by Lieutenant-Colonel Tarleton, having been several
days with the advanced corps, could give me no account of the

our exertions and sacrifices published to the world, as some commanding officers
would have published them, we should have received more applause than our
modesty claims.

" Many officers have not a shift of clothes, and few have a second vest or
breeches. They have had no baggage since the first of January, and we have not
pulled off our clothes at head-quarters since that time. We are, however, lilessed
with health and spirits, and arc happy that our exertions and sufferings tend to
repel the enemy, and put a period to the war." — New Jersey Gazette, April 11.

404 DIAET OF THE EEVOLUTION. [1781.

enemy's order or position, and the conntry people were ex-
tremely inaccurate in their description of the gronnd. Lnme-
diately between the head of the colnmn and tlie enemy's line,
was a considerable plantation, one large field of which was on
our left on the road, and two others, with a wood of about
two hundred yards broad between them, on our right of it ;
beyond these fields, the road contiiuied for several miles to our
right. The wood beyond the i^lantation in our front, in the
skirt of which the enemy's first line was foraied, was about a
mile in depth, the road then leading into an extensive space
of cleared ground about Guilford Court House. The woods
on our right and left were reported to be impracticable for
cannon ; but, as that on our right appeared to be most open, I
resolved to attack the left wing of the enemy, and whilst my
disposition was making for that purpose, I ordered Lieutenant-
Colonel McLeod to bring forward the guns, and cannonade
their centre. The attack was directed to be made in the fol-
lowing order :

" On the right, the regiment of Bose, and the Tlst regi-
ment, led by Major-General Leslie, and supported by the 1st
battalion of guards ; on their left the 23d and 33d regiments,
led by Lieutenant-Colonel "Webster, and supported by the
grenadiers and 2d battalion of guards, commanded by Briga-
dier-General O'Hara ; the Yagers and light infantry of the
guards remained m the wood, on the left of the guns, and the
cavalry in the road, ready to act as circumstances might re-
quire. Our preparations being made, the action began about
half-past one in the afternoon. Major-General Leslie, after
being obliged by the great extent of the enemy's line, to bring
lip the 1st battalion of guards to the right of the regiment of
Bose, soon defeated every thing before him. Lieutenant-Col-
onel Webster having joined the left of Major-General Leslie's
division, was no less successful in his front, when, on finding
that the left of the 33d was exposed to a heavy fire from the
right wing of the enemy, he changed his front to the left, and
being supported by the Yagers and light infantry of the guards,
attacked and routed it ; the grenadiers and 2d battalion of
guards moving forward to occupy the ground left vacant by
the movement of Lieutenant-Colonel Webster.

1781.] COEirWALLIs' LETTER. 406

" All the infantry being now in the line, Lieutenant-Colonel
Tarleton had directions to keep his cavalry compact, and not
to charge without positive orders, except to protect any of the
corps from the most evident danger of being defeated. The
excessive thickness of the woods rendered our bayonets of little
use, and enabled the broken enemy to make frequent stands
with an irregular fire, which occasioned some loss, and to
several of the corps great delay ; particularly on our right,
where the first battalion of guards and regiment of Bose were
warmly engaged in front, flank, and rear, with some of the
enemy that had been routed on the first attack, and with part
of the extremity of the left wing, which by the closeness of the
woods had been passed imbroken. Tlie 71st regiment and
grenadiers, and 2d battalion of guards, not knowing what was
passing on their right, and hearing the fire advance on their
left, continued to move forward, the artillery keeping pace
with them on the road, followed by the cavalry. The 2d
battalion of the guards first gained the clear ground, near
Guilford Court House, and found a corps of Continental in-
fantry, miich superior in number, formed in the open field on
the left of the road. Glowing with impatience to signalize
themselves, they instantly attacked and defeated them, taking
two six-pounders, but pursuing into the wood with too much
ardor, were thrown into confusion by a heavy fire, and imme-
diately charged and driven back into the field, by Colonel
"Washington's dragoons, with the loss of the six-poimders they
had taken. The enemy's cavalry was soon repulsed by a well-
directed fire from two three-pounders just brought up by
Lieutenant McLeod, and by the appearance of the grenadiers
of the guards, and of the 71st regiment, which, having been
impeded by some deep ravines, were now coming out of tlie
wood on the right of the guards, opposite to the Court House.
By the spirited exertions of Brigadier-General O'Hara, though
wounded, the 2d battalion of guards was soon rallied, and,
supported by the grenadiers, returned to the charge with the
greatest alacrity. Tlie 23d regiment arriving at that instant
from our left, and Lieutenant-Colonel Tarleton having ad-
vanced with part of the cavahy, the enemy were soon put to

406 DIAET OF THE EEYOLUTION. [I'TSl.

flight, and the two six-poiinders once more fell into our hands ;
two ammunition wagons, and two other six-pounders, being
all the artillery they had in the field, were likewise taken.
About this time the 33d regiment and light infantry of the
guards, after overcoming many difiiculties, completely routed
the corps which was opposed to them, and put an end to the
action in this quarter. The 23d and Ylst regiments, with part
of the cavalry, were ordered to piirsue ; the remainder of the
cavalry was detached with Lieutenant-Colonel Tarleton to
our right, where a heavy fire still continued, and where his ap-
pearance and spirited attack contributed much to a speedy ter-
mination of the action. The militia, with which our right
had been engaged, dispersed in the woods ; the Continentals
went ofif by the Eeedy Fork, beyond which it was not in my
power to follow them, as their cavalry had suffered but little.
Our troops were excessively fatigued by an action which lasted
an hour and a half; and our numerous wounded, dispersed
over an extensive space of country, required immediate atten-
tion. The care of our wounded, and the total want of provi-
sions in an exhausted country, made it equally impossible for
me to follow the blow next day. Tlie enemy did not stop until
they got to then- iron works on Troublesome Creek, eighteen
miles from the field of battle.

" From our own observation, and the best accounts we
could procure, we did not doiibt but that the strength of the
enemy exceeded seven thousand men ; their militia composed
their line, with jjarties advanced to the rails of the field in their
front ; the Continentals were posted obliquely in the rear of
their right wing. Tlieir cannon fired on us, whilst we were
forming, from the centre of the line of militia, but were with-
drawn to the Continentals before the attack.

" I have the honor to inclose your lordship the list of our
killed and wounded. Captain Schutz's wound is supposed to
be mortal, but the surgeons assure me that none of the officers
are in danger, and that a great number of the men will soon
recover. I cannot ascertain the loss of the enemy, but it must
have been considerable ; between two and three hundred dead
were left upon the field ; many of their wounded that were able

1781.] BATTLE OF GLTLFOED. 407

to move, wliile Yre vrere employed in the care of oin* own,
escaped and follo^^•ed the routed enemy ; and our cattle drivers
and foraging parties have reported to me, that the houses in a
circle of six or eight miles round lis are full of others ;
those that remauied we have taken the best care of in our
power. "We took few prisoners, owing to the excessive thick-
ness of the woods facilitating their escape, and every man of
our army being repeatedly wanted for action.

" The conduct and actions of the officers and soldiers that
composed this little army, will do more justice to their merit
than I can by words. Their persevering intrepidity in action,
then- invincible patience in the hardships and fatigues of a
march of about six Imndred miles, in which they have forded
several large rivers and numberless creeks, many of which
would be reckoned large rivers in any other country in the
world, without tents or covering against the climate, and often
without provisions, will sufficiently manifest their ardent zeal
for the honor and interests of their sovereign and their country.

" I have been particularly indebted to Major-General
Leslie, for his gallantry and exertion in the action, as well as
his assistance in every other part of the service. The zeal and
spirit of Brigadier-General O'Hara merit my highest com-
mendations, for, after receivuig two dangerous wounds, he con-
tinued in the field whilst the action lasted ; by his earnest at-
tention on all other occasions, seconded by the officers and
soldiers of the brigade, his Majesty's guards are no less distm-
guished by their order and discijiline, than by their spirit and
valor.

" Tlie Hessian regiment of Bose deserves my warmest
praise for its discipline, alacrity, and courage, and does honor
to Major Du Buy, who commands it, and who is an officer
of superior merit.

" I am much obliged to Brigadier-General Howard, who
served as volunteer, for his spirited example on all occasions.
Lieutenant-Colonel Webster conducted his brigade like an
officer of experience and gallantry. Lievitenant-Colonel Tarle-
ton's good spirit and conduct in the management of his caval-
ry, was conspicuous during the Avhole action ; and Lieutenant

408 DIAETOF THE EEVOLUTION. [1781.

McLeod, who commanded the artillery, proved himself upon
this as well as all former occasions, a most capable and deserv-
ing officer. The attention of my aide-de-camp, and of all the
other public officers of the army, contributed very much to the
success of the day.

" I have constantly received the most zealous assistance
from Governor Martin, during my command in the soiithem
district. Hoping that his presence would tend to excite the
loyal subjects to take an active part with us, he has cheer-
fully submitted to the fatigues and dangers of our campaign ;
but his delicate constitution has suffered by his public spirit,
for, by the advice of the physicians, he is now obliged to re-
turn to England for the recovery of his health.

" This part of the country is so totally destitute of subsist-
ence, that forage is not nearer than nine miles, and the soldiers
have been two days without bread ; I shall therefore leave
about seventy of the worst of the wounded cases at the New
Garden Quarter Meeting House, with proper assistance, and
move the remainder with the army to-morrow morning, to Bell's
Mill. I hope our friends will heartily take an active part with
us, to which I shall continue to encourage them, still approach-
ing our shipping by easy marches, that we may procure the
necessary supplies for further operations, and lodge our sick
and wounded where proper attention can be paid to them." '

Maech 27. — On the evening of the rejoicing at Charleston,
South Carolina, after the battle at Guilford Court House, two
sailors walking in the streets, and observing the
brilliant illuminations, one says to the other :
" Jack, what the d — ^1 are so many candles lighted for ? " Jack
replies : " You are a pretty fellow, indeed, not to know the
cause. Why, they are lighted to keep us and all the people in
the dark." "

Maech 28. — Chevalier d'Astouches, with the French fleet,
lately returned to Rhode Island from an unsuccessful encoun-

' London Gazette, June 5, and Rivington's Gazette, August 11.
' Pennsylvania Packet, June 16.

1781.] NATAL BATTLE OITF VIRGINIA. 409

ter with the British squadron in the Chesapeake. The suhjoin-
ed relation of his recent operations, is given by a writer at
N'ewport : — " The sale of wind on the 21st of Jan- The French and
uary, having consequences which put some equal- meet otr virginix
ity in the naval forces of France and Great Britain, in North
America, the Chevalier d'Astouches took advantage of the cir-
cumstance to stop the depredations and plunders of the Brit-
ish on the coast of Virginia. For that purpose he sent with
the greatest speed a sixty-four gun ship and two frigates, un-
der the orders of Mons. de Tilly, captain of the navy. His
orders were to go to Chesapeake Bay, and to endeavor to de-
stroy the little British fleet there, and the frigates which pro-
tected it. The enemy having taken the precaution to put their
vessels out of danger in the small river of Elizabeth, Mons.
Tilly could not completely carry out the object of his mission ;
his expedition, however, was not fruitless ; he took or destroyed
ten ships, and carried into Newport, Ehode Island, the Romu-
lus, of forty -four guns, which he had taken at the entrance of
the bay.

" The success of this undertaking, and the great desire of
Mons. d'Astouches to give an efficacious succor to the State of
Virginia, made him take the resolution to renew the attempt
with greater force. He fitted out his squadron, armed the
Romulus, and to uisure as much as it was possible the success
of the expedition, the Count de Rochambeau sent on board his
men-of-war and the Fantasque, a detachment of his army,
under the orders of the Baron de Viomenil.

" On the 8th of March, in the evening, the fleet got under
way ; the contrary winds drove it the following days to tlie
south-east ; however, they took the advantage of the variety of
the winds, approached the coast, and on the lltli, in the morn-
ing, discovered Cape Charles, in Chesapeake Bay. The south
winds which blew very hard, did not allow them to rise in the
wind so as to go into Cape Henry ; on the contrary, they were
driven northward, and tacked about two whole days. On tlie
16th, at daybreak, the wind still continuing to blow from the
same quarter, but with less force, and the weather foggy, the
fleet having their larboard tacks on, a friojate was discovered

410 DIAKY OF TUB EEVOLUTION. [1Y81.

two gimshots to windward; tlie admiral made signals for
chasing, but a short time after, many large ships appearing
through the fog, he did not in the least doubt but the British
had got intelligence, by some enemy to America, of liis going
out, and tliat the west and north-west winds having made them
run more rapidly, they had arrived almost as soon as the
French fleet on the coast of Yirginia. In consequence of that
reflection, he called back the chase, and the wind shifting to
the north-east in the same instant, he made signal to form the
line, with the larboard tacks on. Tlie Britisli fleet were then
two leagues off to the southward, steering the same course.
At nine o'clock the French fleet wore round ahead by the
counter march, and in half an hour after, the Britisli did
the same. At half-past ten tlie admiral, seeing tliat the
wind increased, and that he was approaching the shallows
on the north coast of Virginia, made signals to take the
larboard tacks on board, and to wear round before the wind
by tlie counter march.

" Tlie Chevalier d'Astouches was conscious that not having
got into tlie Chesapeake before the British, his expedition
could not take place ; he knew it was impossible to land his
troops, even from the men-of-war, under the fire of a superior
fleet ; his only care was for the glory of the arms of his king,
without endangering his fleet.

" The British taking advantage of tlieir superiority in sail-
ing and force, continued to rise in the wind, crowding a great
deal of sail, having their starboard tacks aboard. At noon
they were in the French fleet's wake ; a little before one, their
van approached Avithin half a league of the rear of the French
line, and they seemed to have a mind to attack to the leeward.
Till then the Chevalier d'Astouches had worked his ships so
as neither to avoid nor seek the engagement, because he was
sure tliat even the happiest issue of it would hinder him from
fulfilling his principal object ; but the honor of the king's arms,
which he must sustain before America, would not let him give
room to the British to boast that they had pursued Iiim, even
with a superior force, and he took the resolution of attacking
by falling on tlieir van, wearing round by a counter march,

1781.] NAVAL BATTLE OFF TIEGUSriA. 411

and fighting tliem on opposite tacks to leeward, that Lis
sliips might with facility make nse of their lower deck gnns.

" At one o'clock, the headmost ship of the French line was
■within gunshot of the British, and a few minntes after the
engagement began. Tlie van of the British fell to leeward,
and the van of the French fleet did the same, to keep up with
the enemy, so that those two parts of the fleet fought for some
time, running before the wind. A little before two o'clock,
the admiral seeing that the manoeuvre of the British van did
not allow it to run more to leeward, made his fleet haul in the
wind, with larboard tacks aboard by a successive motion,
which made his whole line file oft' upon the van of tlie enemy.
This manoeuvre had a complete success ; their foremost ship
had scarce received the fire of the fifth French ship, Avlien she
fell to leeward, took the wind on his starboard side, and left
the line, accompanied by a frigate which came to her relief;
however, the rear of the British fleet had kept to windward,
and was near enough to fight the French rear while it was
making a motion to get in the wake of the head of the line.
Tliis attack of the enemy's van did very little damage to the
ships that sustained it. Tlie Conquerant, however, suS"ered a
great deal, because, after having fought with the British van,
she sustained all the fire of the centre. She especially fought
with a three-decker, the loss of whose maintopsail yard, and of
a great part of her rigging, compensated the damage done the
Concpierant.

" A quarter before three, the fire having ceased on both
sides, and the French fieet being ahead and to leeward of the
British, the admiral made signal to form promiscuously the
line, lai-board tacks aboard. In a short time this was done,
and the fleet ran under small sail in expectation that the
enemy would attack a second time. Tlie admiral then pror
posed to wear round them, and fall upon their van, but they
had been so ill-used in the first encounter, that they did not
think it jjrudent to expose themselves to a second, and during
the rest of the day they kept to windward and astern, without
taking advantage of their superiority in sailing, to renew the
fight.

412 DIAEY OF THE EEVOLTTTION. [1781.

" In the beginning of the night the British fleet fell to lee-
ward, and the French fleet continued to run to the south-east
with very little sail, and all its lights hung out. The next day
the British were not to be seen, and the Chevalier d'Astouches,
though the advantage was on his side, was obliged to renounce
his hopes of succoring Virginia. Consequently he steered
towards Newport, to repair his ships that had been damaged,
and to put them in a condition of undertaking new operations.

" Too much praise cannot be given to the intrepid firmness
shown by the captains, ofiicers, crews, and troops ; their cour-
age has made a compensation for the number and superior
strength of the enemy's ships, and the expedition would have
been successful had it been dej^ending on the superiority of
courage. The loss of the fleet amounts to eighty men killed,
or dead of their wounds, and one hundred and twenty wound-
ed. Among the first are sincerely lamented, M. de Cheffon-
taine, captain of the navy, and Mons. de Kergu, ensign." '

April 5. — On Saturday last, (March 31st,) a party from his
most gracious Majesty's ships the Monk, and Hope, off Anna-
Attack on polis, Maryland, proceeded up "West Eiver, with
steward's House, j^^ intention of destroying, with tlieir accustomed
savage cruelty, the property of Mr. Stephen Steward. They
arrived at a kind of peninsula called Chalk Point, about a
mile from Mr. Steward's. It appears from the route they
took, they were conducted by a negro of Mr. Steward's, who
lately ventured to try their generosity, and escaped from his
master. On Chalk Point was a cannon of six pounds, and
six men, who, conceiving the enemy's approach must be in
front, (unless they knew the situation of the cannon,) were un-
fortunately alarmed too late to make use of their cannon, for
at their first discovery they were within a few yards of the
shore, and considerably in the rear of the guards. On being
challenged, they answered : " Friends to Congress from Anna-
polis ; " Avhen they were fired on by two only of the guard, some
of their pieces missing fire, the others, frightened at their num-
bers, immediately ran off. They returned the fire fm-iously

^ Newport Mercury, March 31 ; and Rivington's Gazette, April 18.

1781.] ATTACK ON STEWAKd's HOUSE. 413

witli swivels and small arms, and nnfortunately for those whose
inclination was to harass them, those who ran off had with
them all the ammunition. No farther resistance being made,
(for indeed it was now impracticable,) they advanced by land
to Mr. Steward's, where the whole force that conld be mustered,
on whom there conld be any dependence, was six or seven.
It was determined to retreat to Captain Harrison's, where they
were next expected, and there make what resistance they could
with the assistance of such neighbors as might join them ; but
their vengeance was satiated for that time.

When they had so gloriously completed the destruction of
every thing vahiable to Mr. Steward on that place, how did
they exult ! how glowed the generous bosom of the Briton at
a sight so glorious ! how did the conscious blush, which suffuses
each feature of the hero, brighten their looks ! how beat the
gallant heart when they beheld the flames which British hero-
ism alone could kindle, ascend and consume all before them !
A ship of twenty guns, that in a few days would have been
launched, the dwelling-house with most of the furniture, two
or three store-houses, &c., filled with articles of every kind for
conducting the business of building ships, as well as for pri-
vate purposes, provisions, tools, timber, every thing was lost.
The houses, though not elegant, were, for the purpose they
were intended, equal to the most superb ; the hospitable door
was ever open to the honest, and guests of every degree were
welcome as their merits entitled them ; and the very savages
who effected this horrid affair, a few hours before might have
been fed had they been hungry. The loss is not yet to be esti-
mated ; every lioiu- they discover their loss greater. Some
papers and books were consimied.

This brave band, at length satisfied with their mighty feat,
their vengeance glutted, retired in good order, and made good
a retreat, to then- immortal honor, although opposed by such
niimbers. Their malice seemed to be levelled alone at Mr.
Steward, they having passed through Mr. Harrison's house
withont injuring it, and in their way up and returning they
passed several others without molesting them. There were
caimon at the shipyard, but they were too well informed of

414 DIAET OF THE EEVOLTTTIOIJ-. [1781.

its direction to mardi that way. Say, ye dehided few, wlioni
idle fear, prejudice, or treachery actuate; ye warm advocates
for a union with Britain, can idle fancy picture the idea?
No, even folly laiighs at it ; insanity derides it. Oh ! George,
which of the heroes from the long line of l<ings that have
graced the British throne, can compare with thee? Brave,
generous, just, humane, time can never produce any thing to
emulate thy worth.'

Apeil 20. — Day before yesterday, Captains Hubbel and
Ives, with the assistance of other spirited loyalists, manned
Hubbd-s Descent ^^S^^^ "^^^^^ ^^ats, and left Lloyd's Neck, with an
on Connecticut, jutentiou to make descents on the coasts of Con-
necticut. At sunsetting they discovered a schooner at a mile's
distance, on which they immediately gave chase, but the weather
being hazy, and the schooner favored with a strong southerly
wind, got into Newfield harbor, notwithstanding every exertion
to prevent it ; she was piirsued so close to the shore, that
several long shots passed between Captain Ilubbel's party and
some rebel militia who came do\vn to protect the schooner.

Captain Hubbel then rowed to the eastward, determined
to attack the fort near New Plaven ; and so well was the plan
conducted, that they landed in the night about a quarter of a
mile from the fort, and proceeded in such perfect silence, that
they gained the centre of the parade, secured the sentry, and
surrounded the barracks before the rebels knew of their approach.
After forcing the door and entering the barracks, one of the
rebels discharged his musket, and thereupon was instantly
killed. The rest of the party, eleven in number, surrendered
prisoners. Captain Hubbel then ordered the platforms to be
burnt, cut down the flag-staff, and effectixally destroyed two
French (double fortified) nine-pounders, set fire to the barracks,
and to every thing that would burn. The rebel colors, with
the prisoners and eighteen stand of militia arms, were brought
off, and the party returned to Lloyd's Neck without sustaining
any loss.''

' New Jersey Gazette, April 18.

' The prisoners were carried into New York. — Oainc's Mercury, April 30.

1781.] BATTLE OF HOBKIEk's HILL. 415

April 23. — Yesteeday morning tlie American forces under
General Greene, encamped on Ilobkirk's Hill, about a mile
from Camden, (S. C.,) where they remained "n- Battle at Hobkirk-s
molested until this forenoon, at which time Lord ^"'•
Kawdon,' who has been in possession of Camden for some time
past, attacked them unexpectedly, and after a furious tight,
compelled them to retire from the field, leaving a large number
of killed and wounded.

In the action Colonel "Washington," with more address than
usual, captured a party of the British, but was obliged to re-
linquish a great portion of them on the retreat. Much dissatis-
faction is expressed by the general with the conduct of the
officers, but we (the soldiers) are loaded with honor.'

' Rawdon, Hastings, Francis, Marquis of Hastings, Earl of Rawdon, &c., the
son of John, Baron Rawdon, and Earl of Moira, of the kingdom of Ireland, was
born December 7, 1754. He was educated at Oxford, and entered the army in
1771, as an ensign in the fifteenth regiment of foot. Having been promoted to a
lieutenancy, be embarlied for America in 177.5, and w.as present at the battle of
Bunker's Hill. After serving in other engagements, he was, in 1778, nominated
Adjutant-General of the British army in America, with the rank of lieutenant-
colonel. At a later period he commanded a distinct corps in South Carolina. At
the battle of Camden, August 16, 17S0, he commanded one wing of the iirmy
under Lord Cornwallis. The surrender of that general and the decline of the
British power in America, closed his active career. On his return to England he
was created a peer with the title of Baron Rawdon, and held various offices, both
civil and military. He died on the 28th of November, 1825.

'■' Lieutenant-Colonel William Augustine Washington.

' " The fortune of the day," says Gordon, " was irretrievable, but Greene, with
his usual firmness, instantly took measures to prevent Rawdon's improving the
success he had obtained. The retreat was conducted with such order and delibera-
tion, that most of the American wounded, all their artillery, and all their baggage,
were safely carried off, together with six royal commissioned officers, beside
Washington's prisoners. The action was continued with intervals, till about four
in the afternoon, and till the Americans had retreated about four miles, when a de-
tachment of the infantry and cavalry, under Washington, were ordered to advance
and annoy the British. The York Volunteers, a handsome corps of horse, being
a little advanced of the British infantry, Washington with great intrepidity in-
stantly charged them, killed a number and dispersed the rest. The British army,
without attempting any thing further, retired to Camden, and Greene encamped
the Americans about five miles from their former position. The field of battle
Tvas occupied only by the dead. The loss of the Americans in killed, wounded,
and missing, was two hundred and sixty-four. Among the first was Captain Beatty
of the Maryland line, one of the best of officers, and an ornament to his profession.
Many of the missing returned."

416 DIAEY OF THE EEVOLUTION. [1781.

April 28. — " Cassius," in the Pennsylvania Packet of to-
day, makes tlie following strictures upon tlie present state of
affairs in America : —

Si nolis sanus, curres hydropicus.

Feiends Airo ConNTEYiiEN : — "We are now entered into the
sixth year of the war, and yet experience has not furnished us
strictures on with wisdoui. Our officers and soldiers have in-
Americans. ° deed acquircd a considerahle degree of military
knowledge ; but every department of government, in every
State of the Union, seems rather to have lost a part of what
they possessed at the beginning of the contest, than to have
added to the original stock. When Sir William Howe landed
on this continent with about thirty thousand veteran soldiers
in 1776, though you had nothing but inexperienced and un-
disciplined troops to oppose to them, no despondency was to be
seen. At the beginning you were beaten, which was expected
by everybody who had any knowledge of the history of the
world. The perseverance, however, and exertions of Congress,
and of the different States, prevented the enemy from reaping
the advantages which they expected from their success. Their
objects were conquest and subjugation, and they were disap-
pointed. The capture of the Hessians at Trenton, and the en-
gagement at Princeton, which immediately followed that
event, reflected the highest honor on your general and the
troops under his command, and gave the first favorable turn
to your affairs ; and the courage and conduct of your army
at Saratoga impressed all Eiirope with a high opinion of
your military character. Tlie virtuoiis cause in wliich Ameri-
ca was engaged, the wisdom of her councils, and the bravery
of her troops, were everywhere the subjects of conversation.
Tour friends were delighted, and the various publications
wliich appeared in England, together with the debates of the
English Parliament, proved that your enemies could not with-
hold their admiration, at the same time that they were con-
founded and astonished.

In the hour of their insolence the throne of England had
been in vain besieged by your supplications. Offers were now
made on their part and rejected, infinitely more favorable to

1781.] "cAssnjs," TO the ameeicans. 417

America than had ever heen proposed by her. These offers
came too late. Your Kepresentatives in Congress had resolved
to break the political bands which had connected you with
England, and to assume among the powers of the earth the
sejjarate and equal station to wliich the laws of nature and of
nature's God entitled you ; and for the support of that dec-
laration had pledged their lives, their fortunes, and their sacred
honor.

Other insuperable objections presented themselves against
the acceptance of the offers of Great Britain. The most solemn
engagements had been entered into by treaty with the king of
France, that neither of the contracting parties should conclude
either trace or peace with her, without the formal consent of
the other ; and they had mutually agreed not to lay down
their arms, until the indejiendence of the United States, whicli
is declared to be the essential and direct end of the alliance,
should be secured. The two contracting parties likewise en-
gaged " to make all the efforts in their jjower against their
common enemy, in order to attain the end proposed."

It is not my intention to touch iipon the cabals and party
disputes with which this country has been distracted, both in
and out of Congress, and which have retarded our exertions. I
pass over them with silence and with sorrow. Tliey are to be
lamented by us all ; and it is the interest of all that they shoidd
be buried in eternal oblivion. I am induced to troiible you
with this address, to remind you that the stipulations which
have just been mentioned are mutual. Tliat jon are as solemn-
ly engaged to France, as she is to you, to make all the efforts
in the power of each of you, against the common enemy, for
the purpose of securing the independence of the United States.

AND THAT YOU HAVE NOT FULFILLED TOUR ENGAGEilENTS. With

respect to the ai-my. Congress appear to have done every thing
in their power. They are not vested with legislative authority,
but whenever their requisitions are made for the public good,
tliey ought punctually to be complied with. They called in
proper time upon the different States, for a certain number of
men, to be furnished by each of them, in proportion to their
respective abilities, for the completion of the federal army.

Yoi. 11.-27

418 DIAEY OF THE REVOLUTION. [1781.

The time for opening the campaign draws very near, and this
necessary requisition of Congress has not yet been fully com-
plied with. The reinforcement mentioned by the Count De
Eochambeau will probably arrive during the course of next
summer.

That general officer informed the Assembly of Rhode
Island, that the corps Avliich he now commands, is only the
avantrgarde of a greater force expected from France. It is
certain that the avant-garde has preceded the main body an
unusual length of time ; unforeseen circumstances may have
occasioned this. There is no doubt, however, but the latter will
come ; and when they do, it will be as uncommon a spectacle
as it will be disgraceful to us, to see a body of auxiliaries sent
from the distance of three thousand miles, exceeding in num-
ber the national troops of the country they are sent to assist.

If you are determined not to make those exertions which
are necessary for establishing your indejDendence, it is an
act of cruelty to suffer the war to be contimied any longer.
Li that ease you should instruct your representatives in Con-
gress to send a deputation immediately to the Court of France,
to inform them of your intentions. They should be told, that
the solemn assurances which you gave some time ago, to pros-
ecute the war with all possible vigoi", even to the sacrifice of
your lives and fortunes, for the accomplishment of your inde-
pendence, were words without any meaning, and that you are
sorry you ever made use of them. That it is true the English
have used you very ill, that they have destroyed a great num-
ber of your bravest and most valuable citizens, have burnt
your towns, and let loose the savages of the wilderness to mur-
der your women and children, and have committed many
other acts of the most atrocious nature ; that, however, your
hearts are very tender, and disposed to forget and forgive ; and
that therefore you beg to be absolved from your engagements
with the Court of France, that you may sue for, and receive
tlie pardon and protection from the king of England, which
he has been graciously pleased to offer to those who truly re-
pent.

Dishonorable and criminal as this proceeding may appear,

17S1.] DISCONTENT OF THE HESSIANS. 419

it certainly would be less so than the conduct of several of the
legislatures of this continent. Tliese legislatures are of your
own creation, and receive their political existence from the
breath of your nostrils. It behooves you, therefore, to enter
into an immediate examination of their conduct, and to instruct
them on those points wherein they may be found to have been
it or deficient.'

Apeil 30 — ^TnE last and most authentic advices from
Charleston, in South Carolina, are, that the greatest discon-
tents have for some time past prevailed among ^,5^^^^^^^^ ^^^^^
the foreign mercenaries employed in the garrison ^^° Hessians.
of that place; jealousies having arisen from their treatment by
the British commandant, and from other (said to be national)
causes ; insomuch that several soldiers of the two nations have,
in the course of their disagreements, wounded each other, and
the Hessian officers frequently pass the British in the streets,
without taking the least notice of them ; and a German officer
of distinction has for some time been confined, for the freedom
with which he expressed himself concerning the present war,
as his sentiments were most favorable to the Americans ; that
several of them have been heard to say privately, that in case
of an attack on the town by any part of the American army,
they were determined, not only to withhold their assistance
in its defence, but to submit, or aid as much as in their power,
in its conquest, and that they did not design to leave this
country in case of a peace, but settle in it ; that the Tory in-
habitants, who were embodied and armed for the defence of
the town, as militia, were strongly suspected by the British
commandant as encouraging the Hessians in these sentiments,
and of consequence were disarmed, which had exceedingly
chagrined them. That, in addition to the causes already men-
tioned, there is another which has not a little contributed to
these murmurings, which is the glaring partiality of quarter-
ing the troops ; the foreigners being put into the smallest and
most uncomfortable houses, while the British are placed in

' New Jersey Gazette, May 23.

420 DIAET OF THE EEVOLITTION. [1781.

the best and most elegant in the town. Consequences very
alarming are said to be expected from these dissensions by our
enemies in that quarter; and we may reasonably conclude,
that it must considerably weaken their force in tlie garrison,
which consisted of about eight hundred Hessians and three
liundred British, under Lieutenant-Colonel Balfour, com-
mandant of the town.'

Last week, the Senatus Academieus of Tale College, at
E'ew Haven, in Connecticut, conferred the Doctorate of Laws
upon his Excellency General Washington, and also upon the
Reverend Doctor Price, of London."

Last "Wednesday night a party of Indians, consisting of

twenty-five, with two Tory pilots, crossed the river Delaware

Indians at opposito Miuisiuk, the principal settlement of

Minisink. ^i^^^ country.' At daybreak they proceeded to
the house of Tliomas Brink, whom they made prisoner, with his
two little sons, then plundered and destroyed every thing of
any value in the house. From thence they went to the widow
Brink's, distant about one hundred yards, robbed her of every
valuable thing in the house, and destroyed all her provisions ;
then marched to a house near by, where lived two young men
by the names of Westbrook and Job. Tliey entered the house
while the family were asleep ; the men waked in a surprise,
sprung out of bed, and made all the resistance possible, Init
being greatly overpowered by mimbers, fell a sacrifice to sav-
age Lidians and Tories, and experienced that torture in death,
which notliing but British and savage cruelty could invent.
At this house they made Job's wife, and a girl about thirteen
years old, prisoners. They next proceeded to Captain Shimer's,
where they made three of his negroes prisoners ; six rushed
into a room next to where Captain Shinier lay, while the rest
surrounded the house. An old negro woman ran to her mas-
ter's bedside, and cried out, " The Lidians are all around the

Pennsylvania Packet, May 5. ' New Haven Journal, May 2.

See note August 26.

ITSl.J INDIAJ^S AT MINISraK. 421

house, and the next room is full of them/' Upon which in-
formation he left his bed in a moment, seized his rifle, ran to
the front door of the room, opened it, and saw abont ten In-
dians before the piazza, when he presented his piece brisMy
from one to another, which induced the whole to run to the
rear of the house ; he then, by the same stratagem, drove the
whole out of his house. Li the mean time, two of his negroes
got clear, whom he fixed at the two front doors of the house,
each with an axe, with orders to defend them to the last ex-
tremity, then ran up to the second story, and began to fire
out of the windows, when he soon got the assistance of a
man who lay in one of the upper bed-rooms ; they continued
a brisk fire for near an hour, running from window to Avin-
dow, and making all the parade possible. Tlie Indians con-
tinued a sharp fire upon the house during the whole time,
but such was the unparalleled bravery and good conduct of
Captain Shimer, that they despaired of eff"eeting their cursed
design, and began to retreat with their prisoners and plunder.
At this moment Captain Shimer got a reinforcement of four
good marksmen, when he put on his breeches and shoes, (hav-
ing fought all the morning in his shirt,) and pursued them to
the river, near a mile from his house, where he found that
about one-half had crossed. He continued his pursuit with a
brisk fire after the others, crying out : " Rush on, my brave
boys ; we'll surround them ! " which so terrified the cowardly
murderers, though double in number, that they ran mto a
swamp, leaving behind them their plunder, Mrs. Job, her little
girl, and a negro man belonging to Captain Shuner. Tliey
took Mr. Brink and his two boys over with the first ])arty.
Captain Shimer, going into a back bedroom to discharge his
piece, providentially prevented his two daughters, one a young
woman, the other Captain Bonnel's wife with a child in her
ai-ms, from jumping oiit of the window, as they were just lift-
ing up the sash for that purpose, Avhich was at least eighteen
feet from the ground. The loss of the enemy we cannot ascer-
tain. During the action they were seen to carry oS one on a
board, and several were carried away from the Pennsylvania

422 DIAEY OF THE REVOLUTION. [1Y81.

shore ; there was likewise a considerable quantity of blood seen
where they passed.'

May 1. — "When rebel writers write, and rebel printers
print, all good rebels mnst believe. "Walsingham's inquiry
Tho Deprecintion ^^^'^ ^^^^ causes of the depreciation of the paper
of Paper Money. ^Qney of the United States, is an honest display,
to say the least, and will effect a change in the sentiments of
those who have been the real siipporters of the Congress
measures." That writer says : — " The Continental money was
issued in 1775, at a time Avhen America was -without trade,
without allies, and above all, without any system of govern-
ment. At no period of the present revolution were the malice
and arts of dissaifection employed with more industry to pre-
vent the circulation of this money, than for the first year after
its emission ; and yet, under all these complicated disadvan-
tages, it passed near a twelvemonth upon a par with gold and
silver ; nor did it suffer the least depreciation, until it felt the
operation of that cause which would have depreciated the gold
of Ophir ; I mean an excess in its quantity. Here, then, we
have fixed the first cause of the depreciation of the paper
money of the United States. This cause afi'ected its value
only, but had no effect upon its credit. The lower it depre-
ciated, until it fell to four to one, the more extensively and
freely it circulated, insomuch that many of the most acknowl-
edged Tories sold gold for it at the above exchange, and put it
into the funds, or locked it up'iu their chests.

" Tlie second cause which produced a depreciation in onr
money, must be sought for in those acts of government which
affected its credit. Tliese were :

"1. The resolve of Congress for calling the emissions of
May 1777 and 1778 oid of circulation. This was the first
shock the money received. Hundreds suffered by it, and al-

' New Jersey Journal, May 16. Eirington, in republishing this account in his
paper of May 23, says, " A Retrospect of the murders and devastations of the
rebel commanders, (Mr. Sullivan in particular in his last campaign against the In-
dians,) will be considered fully to justify these descents."

" MS. letter from Edward Bagot, May 20.— Winslow.

1781.] DEPEECIATION OF PAPEE MONEY. 42.3

thoiigli its quantity was diminished by it, yet it fell in a few
weeks from four to ten, and in a few months to twenty to one.

" 2. The laws for onaking the Continental mone]) a legal
te7iderfo7' old debts. This made it the interest of every man
who had debts or even taxes to pay, to depreciate the money.
It moreover excdted the disgust and ojaposition of everybody
who had been injured by it.

" 3. Laws for regidating the prices of goods. Tliese, from
the instability of the papei* currency, were imjust and incapa-
ble of cxec^^tion, and hence specie or barter were introduced
in many places in the room of paper money. This affected the
money in two ways. By diminishing the number of people
among whom it circulated, it sunk its value, and the authority of
the laws which compelled its circulation at a given rate, for
articles at all times fluctuating in their prices, necessarily
struck at its credit.

" 4. The €7nbargo upon provisions. Tliis depreciated the
money in two ways : First, it lessened the objects of money,
particularly among the farmers ; and secondly, it obliged our
merchants to piirchase specie often at a high exchange to send
abroad, which exchange afterwards stamped a similar value
upon every article of life.

" 5. The resolve of the eighteenth of March, 11^0, for re-
deeming the money at forty for one. This resolve, from being
compared with the tenor of every bill, and above all, from
being compared with the circular letter which preceded it only
a few months, destroyed all faith in the promises and declara-
tions of government. I should as soon think of trusting a man
witli a cargo of goods who had ruined my family by bankrupt-
cy, as think of giving a credit to a new emission of money,
from a body of men who had acted so contrary to every prin-
ciple of sound policy.

"6. The neglect of Congress to p)ay the interest of the
moneys borrowed since March. Tliis, like mimber five, helped
to destroy the confidence of the public in the promises of Con-
gress.

"7. The p>ayment of pulAic delits in dcprecicded money.
Tliis, like numbers five and six, has destroyed the faith of in-

i24 DIAEY OF THE KEVOLUITON. [1781.

dividuals in our governments. The scale of depreciation lately
adopted by the State of Pennsylvania, for the settlement of
old debts, is both impolitic and unjust. The first payment of
the money dne, for depreciation, to the ofiicers and soldiers of
the Pennsylvania line, is obviously calculated to promote resig-
nations and mutiny.

" 8. The laws for investing executive iodies with a power
to alter the excliancje of money. The edict of the coimcil of
Pennsylvania, of the second of May, was the death-blow of
paper currency of all kinds. As Mark Antony says of the
wound inflicted by Bnatus upon the body of Csesar, ' it was
the most unkindly stab of all.'

" Thus have I enumerated the principal causes and circimv
stances Avhich have reduced and nearly mined the paper
money of the United States. I think it is evident, from what
has been said, that the arts of the Tories, sharpers, speculators,
and money-changers, so often mentioned by Aveak politicians,
have had no more to do in depreciating it than the patriotism
of the Whigs, or the exertions of officers of government have
been eflectual in raising its value or restoring its credit. It is
high time to seek for the causes of our misfortunes, in other
sources than the disaftection of a few taine animals, who are
peaceably submitting to our governments, and contributing
their share of industry in agriculture, arts, and commerce,
towards establishing our independence. This country groans
at present only beneath the folly of weak, ambitious, and in-
terested "Whigs, from whom we have more to fear than all the
Tories on the continent, or even from the power of Britain.

" It becomes rulers to learn, from the catastrophe of our
continental currency, that money is upon a footing with com-
merce and religion. They all three refuse to be the subjects
of law. It becomes the rulers of freemen to learn further, that
money is property, and that the least attempt to lessen its
value in our pockets or chests, is taxing us without our con-
sent. It is the highest act of tyranny. We have tried every
art and device to keep up the credit of paper money, except
one. We have never yet tried the effects of being honest.

" I shall conclude by proposing two plans for the emission

1781.] THE PAPER CUKEENCY. 425

of paper money, whicli no arts of Tories or "Wliigs -will be
able to depreciate :

" 1. Institute a bank where specie may be lodged in safety ;
let bills be issued, signed by the Financier-General, subject to
be exchanged at the pleasure of the holder, for specie at this
bank. One million of Spanish dollars, imder the management
of a gentleman of established credit and ample fortune, would
serve as a fimd for ten milHons of paper dollars. Or,

" 2. Let our government emit money, and let a tax be im-
posed at the same time to the exact amounts of the emission
to be paid in three, six, nine, or twelve months in specie, or
the said bills only. This will necessarily bring the paper
money into universal circulation, and preserve its equality to
gold and silver.

" It has been said, that the war maybe carried on by taxes
and loans in specie. Perhaps this may be necessary until we
forget the frauds and deceptions of our paper currency.
It is certain there is more specie in the country than there was
ten years ago. But while contracts for sjjecie may be can-
celled with paper, (but little more valuable than oak leaves,) it
will be difficult to draw it from the coffers of those wlio hold
it in the largest quantity.

" The Americans deserve the highest praise for the fortitude
with which they have borne the sacking of their towns, and
the desolation of their country, from the hands of the British
army. But let Europe and posterity admire them chiefly for
the patience with which they have borne the more complicated
evils and losses of tender laws, regulations of trade and ex-
change, and a depreciating paper currency. In spite of them
all, I hope my countrymen will part with their republican
forms of government aud their independence only with their
lives." '

May 7. — The Congress is finally bankrupt ! Last Saturday
a large body of the inhabitants witli paper dollars in their
hats by way of cockades, paraded the streets of Philadelphia,

' Pennsylvania Journal, Hay 16.

426 DIAET OF THE EEVOLUTION. [1781.

carrying colors flying, with a dog tabbed, and instead of the
iisual appendage and ornament of feathers, his back was
con<Tess covored with the Congress' paper dollars. This
Bankrupt. example of disafl'ection, immediately under the
eyes of the rulers of the revolted provinces, in solemn session
at the State House assembled, was directly followed by the
jailer, who refused accepting the bills in purchase of a glass
of rum, and afterwards by the traders of the city, who shut up
their shops, declining to sell any more goods but for gold or
silver. It was declared also by the ^oopular voice, that if the
opposition to Great Britain was not in future carried on by
solid money instead of paper bills, all further resistance to the
mother coimtry were vain, and must be given up.'

May 12. — Lord Eawdon having on the Tth instant been
reinforced by the corps under Lieutenant-Colonel Watson,
Lori Eawdon and marclicd out with the hope of bringing General
General Greene. Q-j-eeuc to actiou ; but that wary oihcer, rendered
still more so by the event of the 25th of April," chose to remain
in a strong position, behind Swansey Creek, from which no
eiibrts of his lordship could draw him ; he rather preferring to
see his enemy manceiivre in his front, with all the confidence
of a victorious army, than contest a point, of which former ex-
perience must have rendered him so veiy cautious. Lord
Eawdon, therefore, finding it impossible to draw on an action,
but on terms highly disadvantageous, and by assailing a posi-
tion which gave the rebels their only security, returned to
Camden, having convinced General Greene how futile were
his ideas of blockading that place, when obliged himself to
seek shelter in the recesses of the countiy, and even there to
sufter that blockaded garrison to taunt him with daily defiance.
Thus finding all efforts to engage General Greene in a fair
field were ineffectual. Lord Eawdon removed with the king's
troops from Camden, induced thereto by the approaching sea-

' Eivington's Gazette, May 12. "The above," says Rivington, "is the most
accurate account of the annihilation of the Congressional currency that we have
yet been able to obtain."

^ See April 25th, ante.

1781.] SKIEMISII AT CKOTON EIVEE. 4rl'7

son, vrheii that part of the cotintry proves destructive to the
soldiery.'

Mat 14 — ^Yesteedat, about four o'clock in the afternoon.
Colonel Delancey, with about one hundred cavalry and two
hiindred foot, marched from Morrisania, in New skirmish noar

,^ , , , , , . 1 .1 . Croton River,

1 ork, and penetrated aboiit thirty -three miles into New rovk.
the country, distant one mile and a half beyond Croton Eiver,
which they crossed with gi-eat difficulty, from its being then
unusually deep ; the cavalry were obliged to carry the foot on
horseback, and many of them were forced to swim. Directly
after crossing the river, Captain Kipp, of the horse, and Lieu-
tenant Totten, of the rangers, with the troops under their com-
mand, attacked the rebel Colonel Greene,' with a number of
Continental troops ; the colonel was mortally wounded, and
Major Flagg, with twelve privates, were killed. The doctor,
with twelve or thirteen men, were taken prisoners. At the
same time. Captain Knapp, of the horse, with a detachment
under his command, attacked the house of the widow Griffin,
about half a mile distant from the above, where he took one
ensign and twenty privates, and killed eight men.

On their return. Captain Kipp took five militiamen, and
killed three, without the loss of a man. Lieutenant Totten

' Pennsylvania Packet, July 12. The evacuation of Camden animated the
friends of Congress, and daily increased their numbers ; vrhile the British posts
fell in quick succession. The day after the evacuation, the garrison of Orange-
burgh, consisting of seventy British militia and twelve regulars, surrendered to
Sumpter. Marion and Lee, after the capture of Fort Watson, crossed the Santee
and moved up to Fort Motte, which lies above the fort, on the south side of the
Congaree, where they arrived on the 8th of May. The British had built their
works round Mrs. Motte's dweUing-house, which occasioned her moving to a
neighboring hut. She was informed that firing the house was the easiest mode of
reducing the garrison ; upon that she presented the besiegers with a quiver of
African arrows, to be employed in the service. Skewers armed with combustible
materials were also used, and with more effect. Success soon crowned these ex-
periments, and her joy was inexpressible upon finding that the reduction of the
post had been expedited, though at the expense of her property. The firing of
her house compelled the garrison, of one hundred and sixty-five men, to surrender
at discretion on the 12th, after a brave defence. — Gordon, iv. 89.

' Colonel Christopher Greene, of Khode Island, who defended Red Bank, on
the Delaware, in nVV.

428 DIAEY OF THE EEVOLUTIOX. [1781.

was slightly ■woimded in the side. The above service was com-
pletely effected iu twenty-four hours. After the rebels had, on
a summons, consented to surrender, they fired out of the win-
dows of a house into which they had retreated, thereby pro-
voking the conquerors to storm it.'

Mat 17. — America has not only produced great military
characters, but exhibited many striking instances of humanity
Nathan iiui. ana ''^^^^ gcnerosity in the present war. Among the
^"■i"'''- latter we may place the treatment given to Major
Andre, a British spy, who came within our works with a de-
sign to ruin our coi^ntry. Justice was indeed execiited, and
Andre died. But justice was execiited with humanity, and
every alleviation afforded him that the public safety would al-
low. The generous Americans seemed to forget the nature of
his attempt, in the regard they paid to his accomplishments as
a man and as a soldier. And he was supported in his last
scene, by seeing respect and compassion towards him in every

' Gaine's Mercury, May 21. Tlie number killed in this affair was twenty-two ;
two were wounded and thirty-six talccn prisoners. Thacher, in his journal, gives
the following account of this action : — A party of Continental troops,
commanded by Colonel Christopher Greene, of Rhode Island, being stationed on
our lines near Croton River, were surprised by a party of the enemy, about sun-
rise on the 13th instant. They first attacked Colonel Greene's and Major Flagg's
quarters, and killed the major while in bed. The colonel being badly wounded
in the house, was carried into the woods and barbarously murdered. Two sub-
alterns and twenty-seven privates were .also killed, and a lieutenant and surgeon,
with about twenty men, taken prisoners. This melancholy event is most deeply
regretted ; Colonel Greene bravely distinguished himself in defence of Fort Mer-
cer, at Red Bank, in October 1V77, and has ever been considered as a valiant and
vigilant officer. He had taken post in a situation to guard a certain fording place
at Croton River, and had practised the greatest vigilance in the night-time, caUmg
off his guards at sunrise, on the idea that the enemy would not presume to cross
in the daytime ; but the enemy having learnt his mode of performing duty,
effected their purpose by crossing the ford immediately after the guard had been
withdrawn, and the surprise was so complete that no practicable defence could
avail them. It will not be denied that an enemy may be justified in avaiUng
himself of every opportunity of gaining an advantage over his antagonist, or that
in some instances slaughter is unavoidable ; but a wanton and unnecessary
sacrifice of life is on all occasions to be deprecated as a disgraceful violation of
the dictates of humanity.

1781.] NATHAJ^ HALE AND ANDEE. 429

countenauce and in every action of those into whose hands ]ic
had fallen. Bnt while we pay the debt of humanity to our
eueuiies, let us not forget what we owe to our friends. About
four years ago, Captain Hale, an American officer, of a liberal
education, younger than Andre, and equal to him in sense, for-
titude, and every manly accomplishment, though without
opportunities of being so highly polished, voluntarily went
into the city of New York, with a view to serve his invaded
country. He performed his part there with great capacity
and address, but was accidentally discovered. In this trying
position he exhibited all the firmness of Andre, without
the aid of a single countenance around him that spoke either
respect or compassion, and though every thing that was said
or done to him was adapted to make him feel that he was con-
sidered as a traitor and a rebel. Andre appeared great in not
contesting the clear 'groimds npon which he was condemned,
and in refusing to employ the absurd and frivolous pleas that
Clinton would have put into his mouth. Hale, though not at
all disconcerted, made no plea for himself, and firmly rejected
the advantageous offers made him by the enemy, upon condi-
tion of his entering into their service. Andre earnestly wished
the mode of his death might have been more like that of a
soldier ; but consoled himself by observing, that in either way
it woidd be " but a moment's pang." Hale, calm and col-
lected, took no notice of either of those circumstances. Andre,
as he was going to die, with great presence of mind, and the
most engaging air, bowed to all around him, and retm-ned the
respect that had been and was still paid to him, saying:
" Gentlemen, yoir will bear witness that I die with the firmness
becoming a soldier." Hale had received no such respects, and
had none to return, but just before he expired, said aloud : " I
am so satisfied with the cause in which I have engaged, that
my only regret is, that I have not more lives than one to offer
in its service."

Let justice be done to the character both of the Briton and
American, and to the behavior of their respective nations upon
this and similar occasions.'

' Boston Independent Chronicle, May IT.

-t30 niAEY OF THE REVOLUTION. [1781.

Mat 20. — ^A wkitee in tlie British army at Charleston,
South Carolina, in a letter to his friend in London, says: —

Affairs in "The retrograde progi-ess of oiir arms in this
Charleston, s. c. cQiintry, you have seen in your newspapers, if
they dare tell you the truth. This precious commodity is not
to be had in the government paper which is printed here, for
a fell licenser hangs over the press, and will suffer nothing to
pass but what is palatable ; that is, in plain terms, what is false.
Our victories have been dearly bought, for the rebels seem to
groAV stronger by e"S'ery defeat, like Antseus, of whom it was
fabled, that being the son of the goddess Tellus, or the earth,
every fall whicli he received from Hercules gave him more
strength, so that the hero was forced to strangle him in his
arms at last. I wish our ministry could send us a Hercules to
conquer these obstinate Americans, whose aversion to the cause
of Britain grows stronger every day.

" If you go into company with any of them occasionally,
they are barely civil, and that is, as Jack Falstaif says, by
compulsion. They are in general sullen, silent, and thought-
ful. The king's health they dare not refuse, but they drink it
in such a manner as if they expected it would choke them.

" The assemblies whicli the officers have opened, in hojDes to

give an air of gayety and cheerfulness to themselves and the

inhabitants, are but dull and gloomy meetings ;

Patriotic Women. , ' n . , i ■ ■, t, ■

the men pi ay at cards, indeed, to avoid talking,
but the women are seldom or never to be persuaded to dance.
Even in their dresses the females seem to bid us defiance ; the
gay toys which are imported here they despise ; they wear
their own homespun manufactures, and take care to have in
their breasts knots, and even on their shoes something that
resembles their flag of the thirteen stripes. An officer told
Lord Cornwallis not long ago, that he believed if he had de-
stroyed all the men in North America, we should have enough
to do to conq^uer the women. I am heartily tired of this coun-
try, and wish myself at home." '

' Pennsylvania Packet, December 11.

17S1.] LOED liAWDON's PEOCLAIIATION. 431

May 24r. — ^Tms day, the redoubtable Eawdon' and his not
to be tnisted sqnire Balfonr,' now in very uncomfortable quar-
ters at Monk's Corner, ha,ve issued a character- Lord Eawdon-a
istic proclamation, in which they say :— " Al- Pro-^i^mation.
though attention to the general security of the province has
obliged his Majesty's troops, for the present, to relinquish some
of the upper parts of it, we trust that it is unnecessary for lis
to exliort the loyal inhabitants of those districts to stand firm
in their duty and principles ; or to caution them against the
insidious artifices of an enemy, who must shortly abandon to
their fate those unfortunate people whom they have deluded
into revolt.

" But being well informed that many persons sincerely at-
tached to his Majesty's cause, have, notwithstanding, been
forced to join the enemy, as the only means of preserving
themselves and their families from the savage cruelty of the
rebel militia, until escape should be practicable, we desire
all such to be confident, that they run no risk of suffering from
us, through indiscriminate vengeance ; reminding them that
the British government never extends its hands to blood, with-
out the most convincing proofs of intentional guilt.

"• And we advise all persons in the above predicament (as
likewise those who, from the oppressions of the enemy, have
been obliged to quit their possessions) to take the earliest op-
portunity of coming in with theii' anns, to any post or detach-
ment of the royal army. "We give them assurance of every
support, and of every endeavor on om- part to mitigate their
present sufferings ; further declaring to them, that we shall
feel ourselves no less bound to reward the fidelity of those who
have remained unshaken in their allegiance, than to inflict the
punishment due to reiterated perfidy. Nor should we give
them this invitation, were we not certain that in conjunction
with the army, (daily expecting powerful reinforcements,) their
exertions will very shortly reinstate them in the full and
peaceable possession of that property, which they will thus

See note at April 25, ante.

Nisbet Balfour, lieutenant-colonel and commandant of Charleston, S. G.

432 DIAET OF THE EEVOLTTTION. [1Y81.

have only yielded for a time, to receive again with confirmed
security." '

LORD RAWDON'S PROCLAMATION.

To all our subjects true and loyal,

We greeting send this promise royal,

Tho' signed by Rawdon and Balfour,

They're George's sentiments, we're sure.

And therefore if you can believe it.

As such -n-e doubt not you'll receive it.

'Tis true we are a little staggered,

(But when so, we have always swaggered,)

And found the trick has sometimes taken,

As by it oft we've saved our bacon.

And for so once we think we've reason,

T' exhort you strongly against treason ;

For tho' to save ourselves 'twas meet

That to Charleston we should retreat,

To keep ourselves from rebel Greene,

The d — dest cut-throat e'er was seen ;

Yet still we think it very right

That you should stay behind and fight ;

You know the worst — you can but die,

Or into our protection fly ;

And if the rebels do not carve you,

We with the greatest ease can starve you ;

But should you suffer them to bang you.

Unless y' escape, we'll surely hang you ;

For only such as to us run.

Shall 'scape the halter or the gun.

For running is a token sure.

That on our side you are secure,

Which is the greatest test we have

To prove the loyal and the brave,

From such we never draw the blood,

But (if we have it) give them food.

To strengthen them and make them fat,

To march the better in retreat.

This nostrum great Cornwallis taught,

And with it we have wonders wrought,

By this arcanum Tarleton soon

Escaped that butcher Washhir/tonj'

Who but for this had flay'd him down,

From nape of neck to knuckle bone.

^ Pennsylvania Packet, July 12. - At the Cowpens.

1Y81.] LORD kawdon's pboclamation. 433

I, Rawdon, too, from Camden hurried,
Or flashing Greene my hide had curried.
Should our predicament befall you.
Or should you fear that they may mall you,
Or should oppression from the rebel,
Greater than ours be twice or treble,
Come quickly to us we invite you.
And we will do our best to right you.
And when we get a strong remittance.
Will give you of those scoundrels quittance ;
These we expect each day will come,
(We sometimes think we hear their drum,)
But should our organs be mistaken,
Ne'ertheless we hope you'll be unshaken.
Firmly to your allegiance hold.
Till we can get a httle gold.
Then faithful subjects we'll reward,
And punish t'others with a cord ;
Then think how foolish they will look,
(Ilung by th' neck in every nook,)
While you with pockets full may strut.
And all your vengeance safely glut.
Who would not yield what they posses?.
For a time, t' arrive at so much bliss ?

That all we've told you is most certain,

(We therefore here will drop the curtain,)

As that two and two make four.

And sign R. Rawdon, N. Balfour.

N. B. r the name of George our gracious king,

It's known, we may say any thing.'

Pennsylvania Packet, July

CHAPTER X.

JuiTE 1. — We hear from Newark, in New Jersey, that a
few days since, a number of persons who live near the moun-
Tiie"Back siiad"*^^'^^' ^^^^ ^^'°™ *^®"' wickedness and poverty
at New Jersey, j^g^^g properly acquired the appellation of the Back
Shad, in consequence of a resolution of the pious Eeverend
Commissary Caldwell, and his associates, who were lately
convened at Chatham, repaired to the learned and renowned
JiTstice Campbell, and there, agreeably to the directions of a late
law made by the humane William Livingston, swore that a
number of the inhabitants of the township of Newark were
dangerous to the liberties of the State, and ought to be re-
moved back into the country, whereon this great magistrate
issued his warrant for their removal, and gave them till this
day to prepare for their departure. This will probably create
some disturbance, as our infonnant tells us that the obnoxious
inhabitants refuse to go unless compelled by force.'

Jotte 6.— This day arrived at New York, Ebenezer Hath-
away and Tliomas Smith, who, on the 18th of May last, made
Hathaway and their escape from Simsbury Mines," after a most
Smith's Adventure, gallant Struggle for their liberty. Tliese men de-
clare, that they were two of eight belonging to the Privateer
boat Aventure, which was duly commissioned; that they
were taken in Huntington Bay, Long Island, on the 7th of
April, by seven rebel whale-boats, manned with seventy-three
men, and that night carried across the Sound to Stamford, in

' Kivington'g Gazette, June 2. "^ In Connecticut.

17S1.] SmSBtJEY MINES. 435

Connecticiit ; that tlie next day tliey were carried to what they
called head-quarters, before General "Waterbury, who with
the air of a demagogue, ordered them to Hartford Gaol, and
told the guard they had his liberty to strip them even of the
clothes remaining on their backs ; but the captors had left
them so bare, that all they had about them was not now an
object even to a Yankee soldier ; there they lay until the 27th
following, when their trial came on before the Superior Court ;
that they were brought before the court and directed to
plead not guilty, and offered for council Colonel Seution, one
of the justices, then on the bench, in order that they might by
law bring them in guilty ; but aware of their knavish tricks,
they declared themselves British subjects, and refused to plead
either guilty or not guilty, therefore they were ordered to
Newgate Gaol, or rather to that inquisition, Sims-
bmy Mines, which, from the following description,
exceeds any thing amongst their allies in France or Spain.

Tliese poor unfortunate victims relate, that they were taken
from Hartford Gaol, and marched under a strong guard to Sims-
bury Mines, distant about seventy-four miles. In approaching
this horrid dungeon, they were first conducted through the
apartments of the guards, then through a trap-door down stairs
into another upon the same floor with the kitchen, which was
divided from it by a very strong partition door. In the comer
of this outer room, and near to the foot of the stairs, opened
another huge large trap-door, covered with bars and bolts of
iron, which was hoisted up in two guards by means of a
tackle, whilst the hinges grated as they turned upon their
hooks, and opened the jaws and mouth of what they call Hell,
into which they descended by means of a ladder about six
feet more, which led to a large iron grate or hatchway, locked
down over a shaft of about three feet diameter, sunk through
the solid rock, and which they were told led to the bottom-
less pit. Finding it not possible to evade this hard, cruel
fate, they bid adieu to the world, and descended the ladder
about thirty-eight feet more, when they came to what is called
the landing; then marching shelf by shelf, till descending
about thirty or forty feet more, they caoie to a platform of

436 DIARY OF THE REVOLUTION. [1781.

boards laid under foot, with a few more put over liead to carry-
off tlie water, which keeps continually dropj^ing. Here, say
they, we fonnd the inhabitants of this woeful mansion, who
were exceedingly anxious to know what was going on above.
We told them that Lord Cornwallis had beat the rebel army,

and that their money was gone to the d ^1, with which they

seemed satisfied, and rejoiced at the good news.

They were obliged to make use of pots of charcoal to dis-
pel the foul air, which in some degree is drawn off by the
means of a ventilator or auger hole, which is bored from the
surface through at this spot, said to be seventy feet perpen-
dicular. Here they continued twenty days and nights, re-
solved, however, to avail themselves of the first opportunity
to get out, although they should lose their lives in the at-
tempt. Accordingly, on the 18th, eighteen of them, being let
up to the kitchen to cook, found means to break the lock of
the door, which kept them from the foot of the ladder leading
up to the guard-room. They now doubly resolved to make a
push should the door be opened ; which, fortunately, was the
case about ten o'oclock at night, (to let down a prisoner's wife
who had come there and was permitted to see him.)

Immediately theyseized the fortmiate moment and rushed
up, but before any, except one, got out, the door was slammed
down on the rest, and he, the brave Captain Hathaway, who
commanded the adventure, scuffled with the whole of them
for a few minutes, and was wounded in three dift'erent places ;
when he was nobly assisted by his trusty friend Thomas Smith,
and afterwards by the other eight. Tliey then advanced upon
the guard, consisting of twenty-four in number, and took the
whole prisoners. This was no sooner accomplished than they
brought their companions from out of the bottomless pit, and
put the guard down into their room, then marched off with
their arms and ammunition, but were soon afterwards obliged
to disperse.'

June 14. — This morning, died in Forton Prison, near

' Eivington's Gazette, .Tiine 9.

1781.] DEATH OF WILLIAil IIINES. 437

Portsmouth, England, Mr. "William Ilines, an officer of the
General Gates' private ship of war, from Danvers, near Bos-
ton, Massachusetts ; after having with much pa- jj^^^^ ^^
tience, and with the most ii-reproachable conduct, '^""''™ Hines.
sustained a three years' captivity. He was a man of eminent
religion and virtue. Finding death swiftly advancing, he
called to him his two sons, Francis and William, the one in.
the eighteenth and the other in the fifteenth year of his age,
and said : " My dear boys, I cheerfully submit to my lot, for
it is appointed for all men once to die. I meekly resign unto
the Providence of God, for I see infinite mercy toward me in
this dispensation. Indeed, why should I repine ? I shall now
speedily obtain that release which my eyes have often failed
me in looking after. Oh ! wretched man that 1 was ! that my
faith had almost failed me, as to my temporal deliverance, at
the moment my God was about to give me my grand discharge !
Who, or what shall now confine me! I shall soon be free
as a celestial. Farewell, farewell bolts, bars, and prisons !
Adieu ye dungeons ! adieu ye tents of clay ! welcome fair day-
light and liberty ! Tlie time of my redemption draweth nigh.
But, my dear boys, how shall I bid farewell to you ? That
final parting which would have been easy, which would have
been blissful in our cottage at Danvers, gives pungent grief to
my spirits. I leave you, alas ! in this abode of sorrow and of
wretchedness, but I charge you ' to pray unto God from this
far country and cry unto him from this strange land.' I hope
it will be given to you to revisit the land of your nativity, and
to enjoy peace and prosperity for the days wherein ye have
seen evil. Let a high and gemiine sense of liberty direct and
animate your whole conduct. I give no directions concerning
my bones. They indeed must lie in this region of oppression
and cruelty. O that I had been buried in some part of the
American world ! then would the clods of the valley have
been sweet to me. It is done — my children, weep not for me,
' but weep for yourselves, and for the slain of your people.'
K ever you mourn, let it be for the calamities of your country,
highly beloved, because greatly injured. Francis, give me
thine hand — slender as thine arm is, it may shield thy

438 DIAEY OF THE EEVOLTJTIOX. [1781.

brother. The God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, bless the
lads." '

June 16. — Oub correspondents beyond the lines, sajs Kiv-
ington, give us a most melancholy descrij^tion of the wretched-
ness of the inhabitants of all parts of the country.

EiTington's News. 11^ j

Ihe increase ot the numbers who are for peace and
the re-union, by driving the rest who are a great minority of
the whole to despair, excites them to practise every barbarous
exertion for the preservation of their tyranny.

The mob legislature of New York, by a late law, have
enacted treasons into felonies, that they may take away life
witli only one witness, or presumptive evidence, instead of two
witnesses to each overt act, as their own republican constitution
requires ; and that they may the more easily get jurymen to
attend in criminal cases, and thus abate the dread of falling
Avithiu the excej^tion contained in the Declaration of the Eoyal
Conmiissioners, by being exempted from pardon for putting
loyal subjects to death. The new act passed by the usurpers
at Albany, gives power to send such as they convict for certain
offences 'before treasonable, and noio made felony, to serve in
the French fleet.

Their laws for taxing the people, and forcing them from
home into military services, are intolerably severe and cruel.
^j^^ Among others they have one called the Black

Black Act. ^g^^ under which they plunder the loyalists for
every thing lost or taken from any independent partisan, and
by this they have foiind means so to manage matters as greatly
to enrich themselves. Tliere is an instance in Duchess County,
of about five hundred pounds in value in hard money, raised
to pay for a single horse. Others again profit by robberies of
the loyalists, whose houses are entered by ai-med parties at
midnight, calling themselves Tories, and who, of course, go
clear, because the persons robbed will not prosecute on the
Black Act, nor would succeed if they did, the law (as is ex-
pressed) being made only for good Whigs.

' New York Packet, November 1.

17S1.] Kn-INGTON'S NEAVS. 439

Tliat they may not be embarrassed by the back-srardness
or conscientioiis qiiahns of jnrynieu, certain classes of people
obnoxious to the ruling party, are made triable by courts-mar-
tial, and many perish by these military tribunals, under the
imputation of spies, or concealers, or comforters of spies. To
the credit of the main body of the people, it is observed, that
few, and in some districts none, attended at the late elections
for the officers of the usurpation, and many have removed to
Vermont and other places, not yet so miserable as those they
fly from. In some counties there would be tolerable ease to
the inhabitants, but for ten or twelve of the ringleaders in the
vicinity in all the wicked work of oppression, plunder, and
blood-shedding. It is with difficulty the unhappy sufterers re-
strain themselves under their complicated calamities, and only
through their present di'ead of the rebel garrison at "West Point.

Of the tyrants against whom the complaints of the people
run highest as the most unfeeling malefactors, we find in the
latest letters in general, those acting as Commissioners for con-
spiracies, and sequestrations, and sherifls, with the names in
particular of William Duer, Egbert Benson, Eobert Harper,
Henry Williams, a fellow vulgarly called at Poughkeepsie,
the Bishop, a Doctor Yan Wyck, Jiidge Piatt, Squire Van
I^ess, old Wisner, Squire Stewart, Joseph Wood, William
Holly, Gill Cooper, Judge Call, Squire Rye, and Captain Crom-
pond Drake.

Sonie Connecticut friends assert that there appears to be
such an abhorrence of the present system, and so general a
turn in the minds of tlie people, that if any patriot
should stand forth, and call out all those who
wish to preserve the charter, and enjoy immediate peace, he
would be instantly joined by a vast majority of the colony, in
a resolution to withdraw from the Congress, and oppose the
pernicious councils by which they so often have been cheated
of their property.

Very judicious intelligencers also inform us, that the dis-
gusts and impatience of the main body of the people are as
great in Massachusetts and New Hampshire, and esj)ecially
in all that part of the former to the Avest of Connecticut Kiver.

44:0 DIARY OF THE EEVOLUTIOIT. [1781.

A few months ago, Deerfield ordered her delegate in the gen-
eral court at Boston, to move for instructions to the province
Massachusetts and ^^ Delegates in Congress, to make overtures for
New Hampshire, pgace "with the motlier country ; and so much
alarmed were the zealots for independency, lest this should
prove a match to a train, as instantly to violate their new con-
stitution, by suspending the privilege of habeas corpus ; after
which the tyrants thrcAV Messrs. Williams, Catlin, and Ashley
into jail, as chief promoters of the Deerfield instructions.'

June 20. — ^Thb Tories in New York, " finding much more
tragedy than they desire to witness in their excursions to
Amusements in Wcstcliester, the Jcrscys and indigo Coimectieut,
New Torij. ^^^ Gainc calls it,) have taken to comedy. Last
month a greater part of the army deserted their posts to attend
a fox-chase on Long Island, and returned only in time to pre-
pare for Deane's rout in honor of Kawdon's success at Hob-
kirk's. A bull fight is next to feast the reason." "

' EiviDgton's Gazette, June 16.

' Carver, 164. The following advertisement appeared in Eivington's Gazette
of Juno 20: —

To all who Ivnow not, be it understood.
Pro bono Publico, means mankind's good.
This day, being Wednesday, the 20th of June, will be exhibited at Brooklyn
ferry, A Bull Baiting, after the true English manner.

Taurus will be brought to the ring at half-past three o'clock ; some good dogs
are already provided, but every assistance of that sort will be esteemed a favor.
A dinner exactly British will be upon Loosley's table at eleven o'clock, after
which there is not the least doubt but that the Song called " 0 ! the roast beef of
Old England ! " will be sung with harmony and glee.

This notice gives to all who covet
Baiting the bull, and dearly love it,
To-morrow's very afternoon,
At three — or rather not so soon —
A bull of magnitude and spirit.
Will dare the dogs presuming merit.
Taurus is steel to the backbone,
And canine cunning docs disown.
True British blood runs thro' his veins,
And barking numbers he disdains,
Sooner than knavish dogs shall rule,
Ue'll prove himself a true John Bull.

1781.] SIEGE OF NINETY-SIX. 441

June 22. — Lstfoemation being received that Lord Eawdon
had received a reinforcement from England, and that he was
advancing to the relief of JSTinety-Six, General gjeeof
Greene determined to make an attack upon the Ninety-six.
British fortifications, before he raised the siege, commenced
against that post on the twenty-second of last month. Accord-
ingly, on the morning of the 18th, the necessary dispositions
were made, and about twelve o'olock the action commenced.
Tlie fire from the American battery on the right, where Lieu-
tenant-Colonel Lee commanded, was so warm that the British
were soon driven from their redoubt in that quarter, which the
colonel immediately took possession of, and pointed the can-
non against the to-^vii. At that moment, Lieutenant Selden,
of the Virginia, and Lieutenant Duval of the Maryland line,
made a lodgment in the fosse of the star redoubt, against
which our principal approaches were directed without the loss
of a man. The working party were pulling down the sand
bags, and there was a great probability of their making a
breach in the parapet in a very little time, when the British
being reinforced from the right, charged the Americans in
their fosse to the right and left, and were driven back three
times with very considerable loss ; but Lieutenant Selden, hav-
ing received a wound in his arm, and being obliged to retire,
the men were pressed in upon the Marylanders, and the whole
thrown into confusion, which induced Lieutenant Duval, who
had likewise received a wound, to bring off the party. Tliese
two young gentlemen displayed great gallantry upon this oc-
casion, and merit the particular respect of their country.

During the attempt, a very heavy fire was kept up by the
American troops in the front parallel, and the riflemen upon
the advanced battery, with considerable execution; and
though they had the misfortune to fail in their first effort, such
was the spirit and eagerness of the men to engage, that if their
situation and circumstances would have justified the general
in sporting with the lives of two hundred men, they could
have carried the place. Tlie Americans continued before it
until the morning of the 20th, (when his lordship was within

442 DIAET OF THE EEVOLTJTION. [1781.

twelve miles of tlie American camp,) and then retired across
the Saluda Kiver.

His lordship is now at Ninety-Six, and the Americans are
about fifteen miles off. The military of the country are turn-
ing out, and when drawn to a point, we think we shall be able
to put him in a retrograde to Monk's Corner ; at any rate he
cannot live where he is, and must either retire to the neigh-
borhood of Charleston or take post at the Congaree. Should
he take post there without superior cavalry and mounted mili-
tia, we can cut off his supplies, and render his situation very
critical. We are prepared for all events, and let what will
happen, we are detemiined to do every thing in our power to
promote the interest and honor of our country.'

June 25. — ^The virtue and magnanimity of the Charleston
ladies, vies with the Spartans of old. Is othing can equal their
^jjg adherence to the independence of America. The

Carolina Women, yanquisliers strive all in their power to induce
them to partake of their amusements, but all their importunities
cannot prevail upon any of them, to add a lustre to their
balls, &c. They, sensible of the distresses of their (once
happy) country, seem to take no pleasure but in retiring
from public view, to bemoan the cause of suffering liberty.
When nothing but tyrannical destruction appears to be hover-
ing over every friend to freedom, they, lilve true heroines,
discover an invincible firmness and resolution. Were the
men half so steady to their country's good as the women,
no nation could boast more illustrious natives than Carolina.
To the everlasting glory of the sex, many examples can be ad-
duced of ladies exhorting their dearest connections to behave
with a becoming fortitude ; anxious for their honor, earnestly
urging them to perseverance, while they by a laudable economy
are supporting their families. Are not these things enough
to reanimate the Carolinians to recover their oppressed
country ? "

' New Jersey Journal, August 1. ^ PennsylTania Packet, August 21.

17S1.] MASONIC CELEBEATION. 443

June 2C. — ^Testeeday being- the anniversaiy festival of St.
John the Baptist, was celebrated by the worshipful master
and brethren of Lodge number 210, Ancient York Masons, in
the cit}' of !N"ew York in the following order, viz. :

Tliey rejjaired from their lodge-room, in due form, to the St.
Paul's Church, where an excellent sermon was delivered by
our brother Walter ; afterwards they crossed the ^j^g^^gi cciebra-
East Kiver, and had a truly elegant dinner, pro- *'°'' "' ^"'^ ^°*-
vided by brothers Hay and Kirk, at Brooklyn Hall, Avhere tlie
following loyal and Masonic toasts were given, viz. : — 1. Tlie
king and the craft ; 2. Tlie queen, royal family, with Masons'
wives and bairns ; 3. Sir Henry Clinton, and all loyal Ma-
sons ; 4. Admiral Arbuthnot, with tlie other officers of the
navy, and all distressed Masons ; 5. Generals Knyphausen and
Eeidesel, with the troops under their command, with our
visiting brethren ; 6. The army and navy of Great Britain, and
the grand-masters of England, L-eland, and Scotland ; 7. Lords
Cornwallis and Eawdon, and the army to the southward, with
the Ancient Fraternity ; 8. All loyal subjects, and each faith-
ful Pair that loves the craft of Masonry ; 9. Success to the
loyal embodied refugees, and our ancient fellow lodges in this
city ; 10. Victory to our fleets and armies in the "West Indies,
and all regular ancient lodges ; 11. May the Congress at
Vienna consult the honor of Great Britain in their councils,
and may every good man be a Mason, and every Mason a good
man ; 12. A speedy conviction to our enemies of the error of
their ways, and the day. After which the following song was
sung :

TvyE—God Save the King.
By sacred influence hurl'd,
From chaos rose the world,

Great will of Jove.
Grand architect supreme,
Fountains of wisdom stream,
EeceiTe our humble theme,

Duty and love.

Yon glorious azure arch,
Beyond frail mortals search,
Stupendous sphere,

DIAKY OF THE EEVOLUTIOlir. [1Y81.

Immensity design'd
To elevate the mind,
Such power witli lore conjoin'd,
Let us revere.

This day our hearts inspire
With true Masonic tire,

Such be our prayer.
Regardful of our vows,
Then to the world disclose,
What virtues to compose,

Masons that are.

In mystic moral line
Let all the virtues shine.

Censure will cease.
Let charity abound,
Sweet unity be found,
So ever be renown'd.

For faith and peace.

Temples aloft shall rise,
And fabricks reach the slue3.

By Masons' hands.
May temperance e'er command,
With prudence in her hand.
Guide each Masonic band

Throughout all lands.

Return ye erring few,
Whom frantic zeal withdrew

From honor's cause.
Wide we'll our arms expand,
Grasp you with friendly hand,
Say you through life demand

Brothers' applause.

'Tis by the will of heaven
Kings to command are given,

George we proclaim.
Chant in full song his praise,
May such deeds crown his days.
As will through ages raise,

A deathless name.

1781.] STATE OF A3IEKICAN AFFAIRS. 445

Jehovah we implore
Peace to his realms restore,

Grant that his reigu
Tyranny may destroy,
While we with rapture cry.
The King shall then enjoy

His own again.

After ■wliicli tliey re-crossed tlie East Eiver, repaired to tlieir
lodge-room and closed tlie day.'

JiiNE 28. — The United States of America have at this mo-
ment a fair prospect of establishing tlieir peace and independ-
ence, which may soon be realized, if the Americans g^^^^ of American
be not wanting to themselves. The Britons, by -A^ffaire.
turning their arms to the Southern States, have experienced
what the wise and sagacious predicted from this measure ; they
have greatly exhausted and dissipated their army, and found
it easier with a collected force, covered by a superior navy, to
penetrate into a thin settled country, than to spread them-
selves over it, and maintain their conquests. The climate, and
the brave persevering eiforts of the patriots in that quarter,
have almost ruined the army of Cornwallis, which having been
drawn from New York, must have greatly weakened that im-
portant post. The Spaniards have greatly distressed the Brit-
ish settlements in the Floridas, and have taken Pensacola.'' A
great part of Georgia is recovered from the British, and almost
the whole of South Carolina is at this hour in the possession
of the United States. Yirginia, imder particular disadvantages
at its first invasion, is now collecting its whole force to co-oper-
ate with the assistance it has received, and to which it is en-
titled, and the prospect there is far from being discouraging.
Britain has received an unexpected and terrible shock in the
late account from the East Indies, where the loss of a large
share of her settlements, and the tottering state of the rest,

' Printed by order of the Worshipful Master, James Foreman, Secretary.
Gaine'a Mercury, July 2.

' Don Galvez, the Spanish governor of Louisiana, took Pcnsacola on the 9th
of Mav.

446 DIAET OF THE EEYOLITTION. [1781.

threatens tlie total ruin of lier finances ; at tlie same time she
cannot but look with anguish on the good condition of the
finances of France, where not a single new tax has been levied
during the war ; but the whole charge of it defrayed by the
mere savings of economy. These, and many other circum-
stances that might be mentioned, must induce Britain to be
very serious in her desires of peace. Accordingly she has
consented, if not primarily, and secretly moved a convention of
the belligerent powers at Vienna for that purpose, under the
mediation of the Emperor of Gei-many and the Empress of
liussia. To suppose that nothing is to be said in this conven-
tion respecting America, or that even Britain has forbidden it,
is too ridiculous to require a serious answer. It is to suppose
all the powers convened in this business are fools ; for how
can they confer upon a pacification, and at the same time
leave out America, the source and principal seat of the
war? In the nature of things, America must be the chief
subject of their deliberations, and Britain will doubtless keep
her eye principally upon that continent during the negotia-
tions, and will rise and fall in her demands, will accede to, or
recede from the proposals made, according to the events of
war in that quarter.

Tlie present, then, is the critical day for America. Dissen-
sions, languor in our councils or conduct, would re^ave the
hopes of Britain, and might be an irreparable injury to the
Americans and their latest posterity. Union and vigor through
the present campaign, may lay a stable foundation of liberty
and happiness to these States. Having expended already so
miich blood and treasure in their glorious cause, it should be
a first principle in the mind of every free citizen, that the only
way to reap the fruits of all, and to make a safe and honorable
peace, is to conduct the remainder of the war with vigor.
Tliis, and this alone, will make it short. Tlie most noble nego-
tiator in Europe will find himself greatly embarrassed if the
measures we take here do not give force to his demands on our
behalf, and an edge to his arguments and persuasions. A
good army in the field, and well provided, is absolutely neces-
sary to give the finishing stroke to the establishment of Ameri-

1781.] CAPTUEE OF COLONEL HATNE. 417

ca's iiivahiable rights. One signal defeat of tlie British -will
have more effect on the negotiations at Vienna, than all the
eloquence of the most accomplished plenipotentiaries.'

June 30.-^By a person from "Winchester, in Virginia,
which place he left last "Wednesday week, (20th,) we hear that
a desperate knot of Tories has been discovered. ^^^ ch:>T\cs Lee
A man, formerly a Hessian soldier, had been ob- * Traitor,
served at Martinsbiirg several times very busy among the Sara-
toga prisoners, and upon strong suspicion of his conduct, he
was apprehended, when, to avoid immediate death, he confess-
ed, after having been twice tied up. A party were directly
sbnt to examine the person, who, he said, was to be their col-
onel, but whose name this informant does not recollect. The
colonel was taken prisoner, and upon searching his house they
found a great number of guineas, copies of commissions, and
other papers, by which it appeared that GJiarles Lee, Esq.,
(formerly a Continental general,) was to be their principal com-
mander. A detachment of the militia light-horse was imme-
diately sent to Lee's house, biit he had gone off, and it was
generally supposed in Virginia, that he had got safe into the
British lines. A report also prevails in town, that General
Charles Lee has joined Earl Cornwallis at "Williamsburgh in
Virginia.

In confirmation of the above, is a letter from a member of
Congress at Philadelphia, saying that " General Lee has sold
all his frojperty, and deserted to the enemy. ^^ °

July 1. — Last Tliursday night a small party of mounted
rebel militia surroimded the house of Andrew 'Williamson,
Esq., formerly brigadier-general of the South cai.tui-e of
Carolina militia, about seven miles from Charles- ^°^°"''' ^'''^'"'■
ton, and without allowing him time to put on his clothes, car-
ried him off prisoner. On intelligence being received of this.
Major Frazer, with ninety of his dragoons, was detached next
day in quest of them. After having effected a circuitous

■ PennsylTania Packet, July 14. " Ppcott, vi. 207 ; RivingtOD, July Y.

448 DIARY OF THE EEVOLTJTION. [1781.

marcli of more tlian seventy miles tlirougli tlie woods, witli
the most profound secrecy, on Saturday morning the major
surprised their main body in their camp at the Horse Shoe,
killed fourteen on the spot, woimded several, took Colonel
Isaac Hayne, their commander, prisoner, and released General
Williamson from his confinement at a house in the neighbor-
hood.

Tlae anxiety to rescue General "Williamson, and the rebels
not making the smallest show of resistance, but betaking them-
selves to the woods in every direction, prevented their sustain-
ing a greater loss. Their numbers before that morning were
estimated at more than two hundred ; their own accounts made
them much stronger. Among the killed was the second in
command, Lieutenant-Colonel McLaughlan ; his brother Cap-
tain McLaughlan was dangerously wounded. Colonel Hayne
was brought into Charleston to-day, and is now lodged in the
provost.'

July 4. — ^The imagination can scarcely conceive of a more

miserable condition than that of the inhabitants of New York,

Kivinston's bctwecn the Highlands and Albany. The persons

" Condition of New „ . . ^ '^ ^ t ■ i ■ ^ i i>

York." favoring independency, which consist only ot
such as despair of escaping the vengeance of their country-
men, abandon themselves to all the cruelty of cowardice.
Alive to suspicion, the general consideration is about spies
and harborers of spies, and in the extremity of their ten-ors,
the slightest jDreparations pass with the tyrants in office for
demonstrative proof. Hence women are committed to their
jails, capital executions grow more frequent, and to the re-
proach of humanity, there was an instance within a month
past of a man under public condemnation, being hanged in Ms
prison to gratify the pride of the sheriff, who (obliged to be
executioner himself) was ashamed to perform the office of hang-
man in the fields. Albany was reserved for this first and rare
instance of infamy.

And though tlic credit of paper money is totally extinct in

' r.ivington's Gazette, August 1.

JAM IS s mHVHHcBiraDrf,

1781.] ENGLISH MISKEPKESENTATION. 4-19

all parts of the continent, (and for tliat reason the late mint of
specie or hard money paper not wholly issued, but withheld if
possible to increase its value, or rather the demand for it,) their
late mob assembly have published a tax law, to oblige every
man to give a bushel of wheat for every sixty dollars of his
former assessment, in old continental, and if he has no wheat,
then twelve shillings in lieu of a bushel of wheat, and on fail-
ure in ten days, two bushels or twenty -four shillings. This
wheat, it is said, is for the supply of Washington's army, but
really intended to be sold to the French for hard money ; and
what will be done with that, no person is at a loss to conjec-
ture. Miserable people, the prey of plunderers of their own
creating ! " How long, 0 Lord ! " is the cry of the oppressed !

By the abandoning of Fort Stanwix, all the western country
is deserted down to Schenectady, and the persecutors who
dare to continue in Kingston have fortified and drawn ditches
around their houses, in exjjectation of the Indians as soon as the
harvests are m stack.

The advocates for peace and the re-union, and who have
been so ever since the fatal declaration of iudejjendence, and
who are a vast majority, grow every day more numerous, and
it is remarkable that not a single instance can be assigned of
the apostasy of a loyalist to the wicked and interested views
of the usurpers.

There is a new set of mob legislators met at Poughkeepsie ;
a little time will show whether they mean to expose themselves
to all the vengeance of which the majority of the late assembly
and senate live in constant dread, many of them changing their
lodgings, to elude the search of the avengers of the innocent
blood they have shed. Mr. Clinton, the titular governor, has
fortified his huts against a sudden surprise, and the rebel slaves
of Poughkeepsie guard it every night.'

Feoji the commencement of the present war, the British
Ministry, their agents and tools, have depended more ujion the
base arts of deceit and corruption, than the justice of their cause

' Rivington's Gazette, July 4.

450 DIARY OF TIIE EEVOLUTION. [1T81.

or tbe power of arms. It is a fact well established, tliat in

the course of the last year, the British governmeut expended

upwards of fifty thousand guineas on hirelings

English Lies. ■■■ . , ,n ,. . ?-, . . -, *

employed to teli Jies m pamphlets and ui the news-
papers in Europe and America. Tlie present year will proba-
bly cost them double that sum, as their aflairs are in a more
critical state, and we may expect to see marks of redoubled
industry in the trade of misrepresentation and falsehood. The
newspapers begin to abound with this species of intelligence.
We are told that fleets of ships and armies of men are coming
to America ; that all the powers of Europe are against us ;
that the rupture with Holland is to be made up ; that a peace
is aboiit to be concluded among the European belligerent
powers, and the United States are to be left to shift for them-
selves ; with a thousand tales of this stamp, so shallow and
absurd, that any man who has the least reflection or the
slightest means of information, and believes them, almost de-
serves to be duped and imposed upon. It is to be lamented
that the uninformed, the unwary, and the timid, are sometimes
deceived, notwithstanding the whole experience of the war.
Beware, Americans, that they who cannot fight you- oid of
your liberties, le not suffered to lie you out of them^

July S.^ — L.vfayette and Wayne are leading the British in
Virginia through a very intricate path. The latest operation
EiK'ngement near ^^ *^^^* '^^ Wayne, with a haudful of Pennsylva-
jamestown, Va. xA&u?,, frightening the whole of Coi-nwallis's army
of " undaunted Britons." The Tories say it is only " another
version of the deceit and unfairness practised by the little
Frenchman last May : " ' — CornwaUis having encamped near

' Xew Jersey Gazette, July 4.

* Letter from Colonel Alexander Scammel, dated King's ferry, New York,
August 20. The descent here alluded to is as follows : — Lord Cornwallis, on tak-
ing command of the British forces in Virginia, felt himself so superior to the
Americans, that he exulted in the prospect of success ; and despising the youth of
his opponent, Lafayette, unguardedly wrote to Great Britain, " Tlie boy cannot es-
cape me." The marquis's army consisted of three thousand and sixty men. Corn-
wallis proceeded from Petersburg to James River, which he crossed in order to
dislodge Lafayette from Richmond. That place having been evacuated, he then

1Y81.] ENGAGEMENT NEAE JAMESTOWN. 451

Jamestown, in Virginia, the Marquis Lafayette sent General
Wayne, with the Pennsylvania line, to take their station with-
in a small distance of the British army, and watch their mo-
tions. About three hundred riflemen occupied the ground
between General Wayne and Lord Cornwallis, who were di-
rected to scatter themselves in the woods, without order, and
annoy the enemy's camp. This they did with such eflFect, that

marched through Hanover county, and crossed the South Anna River — Fayette
constantly following his motions, but at a guarded distance, in every part of his
progress. His lordship at one time planned the surprisal of the marquis, while
on the same side of the James River with himself; but was diverted from his in-
tention by a spy, whom Fayette had sent into his camp. The marquis was very
desirous of obtaining full intelligence concerning his lordship, and concluded upon
prevailing, if possible, upon one Charles (generally called Charley) Morgan, a Jer-
sey soldier, of whom he had entertained a favorable opinion, to turn deserter and
go over to the British army, in order to his executing the business of a spy more
effectually. Charley was sent for and agreed to undertake the hazardous employ,
but insisted, in case he should be discovered and hanged, the marquis, to secure
his reputation, should have it inserted in the Jersey paper, that he was sent upon
the service by his commander. Charles deserted, and when he had reached the
royal army, was carried before his lordship, who inquired into the reason of his
deserting, and received for answer, "I have been," my lord, "with the Amer-
ican army from the beginning, and while under General Washington was satis-
fied ; but being put under a Frenchman, I do not like it, and have left the service."
His lordship commended and rewarded his conduct. Charley was very diligent
in the discharge of his military duty, and was not in the least suspected ; but at
the same time carefully observed all that passed. One day while on particular
duty with his comrades, Cornwallis, in close conversation with some officers, called
Charley to him, and said, "How long a time will it take the marquis to cross
James River ? " Charley paused a moment, and answered, " Three hours, my
lord." His lordship exclaimed, "Three hours! why it will take three days."
"No, my lord," said Charley, "the marquis has so many boats, and each boat will
carry so many men. If your lordship will be at the trouble of calculating, you
will find he can cross in three hours." His lordship turned to the officers, and in
the hearing of Charley, remarked, " The scheme will not do." Charley concluded
this was the moment for his returning to the marquis. He, as soon as possible,
plied his comrades with grog till they were well warmed, and then opened his
masked battery. He complained of the wants that prevailed in the British camp,
commended the supplies with which the American abounded, expressed his in-
clination to return, and then asked, "What say you, will you go with me?"
They agreed. It was left with him to manage as to the sentries. To the first
he offered, in a very friendly manner, the taking a draught of rum out of his can-
teen. While the fellow was drinking, Charley secured his arms, and then pro-
posed his deserting with them, to which he consented through necessity. The

453 DIAEY OF THE EEVOLUTION. [1781.

a small party was sent out against tliem, to dislodge them ;
each side continuing, to reinforce, at length the whole of Gen-
eral "Wayne's division were engaged ; they drove the advance
detachment back to their lines, and, without stopping there,
attacked the whole British army, drawn up in order of battle,
and charged them with their bayonets. The action was obsti-
nate for the little time it lasted, but the disproportion of num-
bers was too great. The marquis arrived, in person, time
enough to order a retreat, and to bring off the Pennsylvania
troops before they were surrounded, which the enemy were
endeavoring to effect, being able greatly to outflank them.
Cornwallis did not pursue them more than half a mile in the
retreat, apprehending that the rest of the Americans were near
enough to support them, and not choosing to risk a general
engagement. The Americans lost two field-pieces, which
could not be brought off, all the liorses belonging to them be-
ing killed. Captain Savage did great execution with a third
field-piece under his command, situated in such a manner as
to rake, with grape shot, a solid column of the enemy on their
march, witli which he cut lanes through them, and repeatedly
drove them back with the utmost confusion. The riflemen
and light-infantry were of great service, and gave the British
some well-directed and very heavy fires. Tlie whole of the
American troops which were engaged that day, did not amount
to more than eleven hundred. Wayne's division lost one hun-
dred and seven privates and non-commissioned officers, killed,

second was served in like manner. Charley Morgan by liia management car-
ried otf seven deserters with him. When he had reached the American army, and
was brought to head-quarters, the marquis, upon seeing him, cried out, "Ha!
Charley, are you got back ? " " Tes ; and please your e.'tcellency, and have
brought seven more with me," was the answer. When Charley had related the
reason of his returning, and the observations he had made, the marquis offered
him money, but he dechned accepting it, and only desired to have his gun again.
The marquis then proposed to promote him to the rank of a corporal or a ser-
geant. To this Morgan rcphed, "I will not have any promotion. I have abilities
for a common soldier, and have a good character ; should I be promoted, my
abilities may not answer, and I may lose my character.". He however nobly re-
quested for his fellow-soldiers, who were not so well supplied with shoes, stockings,
and clothing as himself, that the marquis would promise to do what he could to
relieve their distresses, wliich he easily obtained. — Gordon, iv. 113.

1781.] FIGHT AT KINGSBEIDGE. 453

wounded, and missing, and twelve commissioned officers, among
the last. Captain Stakes, wounded in the leg, and Captain Cun-
ningham, in the foot, both slightly. The Anaericans suftered no
loss of any consequence, except in General Wayne's division.

The British, immediately after the action, which ended
about nine o'clock in the evening, crossed James Eiver. The
whole army were crossed over in the morning, excepting a
part of their light-horse, for which they had boats ready to
bring them over instantly, in case of an emergency. Saturday
afternoon, or evening, they crossed also.

Those of the wounded Americans who were left on the
field, to the number of about twenty-five, were treated by the
British with more humanity than usual, and were left behind.

Cornwallis, finding among the killed and wounded none but
the Pennsylvania line, and from that circumstance, and the in-
formation of his prisoners, having learned that only that line,
with a few riflemen and light-infantry, had been in the action,
found greater cause of chagrin that such a handful of men
should have made so spirited an attack upon his army, than
of exultation for having repulsed them.

It is said a part of the British troops are embarking for
New York, that a garrison will be left at Portsmouth, and the
rest probably go to the southward. The marquis is moving
up James Kiver.'

July 9. — ^In the evening of the 2d, Lieutenant-Colonel
Emmerick marched with one hundred men, drawn from the
regiments of the line, from the encampment near -p^^^^ ^^ j^j^^.
New York, to Phillips' house ; as, the next morn- ^"'^s^' ^-^^ ^'"'■^•
ing, a number of wagons, under an escort of two hundred foot,

' Extract of a letter from a gentleman in Captain Moor's troop of light dra-
goons, dated Holt's Forge, New Kent county, July 11 ; in the New Jersey Gazette,
August 8. The same writer, in concluding his letter, says : — " I had the pleasure
of seeing the marquis in a most amiable point of view, visiting the wounded offi-
cers and soldiers, going from man to man, examining into their situation, their at-
tendance, their wants, and giving every possible care that all things necessary
should be furnished — a conduct which, while it does honor to the humanity and
goodness of his heart, cannot fail to engage him the affections of the soldiery,
and endear the name of I^a Fayette to every American."

454 MAUY OF THE EEYOr.UTION. [1781.

and thirty mounted Yagers, were to be sent to the same place
for some hay. But abont ten o'clock the same evening, intel-
ligence was received of General Washmgton's army having
been at Sing Sing in the afternoon of the 2d instant. It was
therefore resolved to leave the wagons within the lines, and
send the detachment to recall Colonel Eimnerick. Lieutenant-
Colonel De Prueschenck, with the following officers under his
command, viz. : Captain Henricks, Captain De Wangenheim,
Lieutenant Schaefer, Lieutenant De Deimar, and Lientenant
De Baltholmai, left the camp at daybreak, and having left
Kingsbridge, would not pass a series of defiles before he had
reconnoitred Fort Lidependence ; he therefore ordered his ad-
vanced guards, under Lieutenant Schaefer, and another party,
of a sergeant and ten men, to examine the fort and its environs.
It being not yet quite day, these parties did not perceive the
rebels drawn up in a line of battle, till they were within ten
yards of them, when they received their fire, returned it, and
fell back to a proper distance. Lieutenant-Colonel De Prues-
chenck immediately and with great resolution and presence of
mind, endeavored to gain the height in the rear of the fort,
and though he received the rebels' whole fire, succeeded so far
as to take possession of the ruins of a house which was former-
ly fortified by Colonel Emmerick. From this place he attack-
ed the rebels in tlieir advantageous position, intending to dis-
lodge them ; but, observing a battalion with flying colors in the
fort, finding their superiority of numbers, being furiously at-
tacked with the bayonet, and at the same time seeing no pos-
sibility of gaining any ground to his advantage, he resolved to
fall back under the cannon in Charles' redoubt ; but the rebels
pressing too hard npon him, and his infantrj'-, on account of
the narrow passage, beginning to lose ground, and being appre-
hensive of sustaining some loss in repassing the defile in such
a situation, he ordered his cavalry under Lieiitenant Flies, to
charge the advancing enemy. Tliis had the expected effect ; the
rebels stopped, the Yagers formed again and recommenced the
attack with redoubled vigor, obliged the rebels to quit the fort,
and drove them from the heights as far as Dcveaux's house,
taking possession of the ground they liad quitted. At this time

1781.] FIGHT AT KINGSBRIT>GE. 455

Lieutenant-Colonel De Wiirni arrived with the rest of tlie Yager
corps from Kingsbridge, and took possession of the rising
ground between the Bridge and Fort Independence, recon-
noitred the enemy's new position, extending from Miles-square
road over the height to William's Bridge, with a thick wood
in their rear, plainly indicathig a design to conceal their real
strength. As repeated intelligence was received that three
hundred French horse covered the enemy's left at William's
Bridge, Colonel De Wurm acted with precaution, and did
not think proper to risk another attack ; but Lieutenant-Col-
onel Emmerick retreating over Spuyten Duyvil, and being
ci;t off by the rebels' position, (two hundred men being arrived
at this time from the regiments of the line, and the refugees
from Morrisania having joined,) it was absolutely necessary
to force the rebels from their ground, to give Colonel Emmer-
ick an opportunity of joining by the way of Cortlandt's house,
still in possession of the rebels. The Yagers moved forward
and took possession of Cortlandt's Bridge ; the refugees and the
advanced parties of the Yagers engaged the rebels' advanced
posts and drove them to their main body, which immediately
filed off to the left, and retreated towards William's Bridge.
The passage being now open. Colonel Emmerick was desired
to leave Spuyten Duyvil and to join, which he did, and informed
General De Losberg that he drew two hundred rebels into his
ambuscade at Phillips' house, of which he killed three and
took nine ; that the rebel army was moving in two columns,
(one of which was already seen on Valentine's Hill advancing
towards Cortlandt's Bridge.) Tlie troops were now ordered to
fall back to their former position, leaving one hundred Yagers
at Fort Lidcpendence, and observe all the motions of General
Washington's army, who himself reconnoitred Spuyten Duyvil
at three o'clock in the afternoon. At four o'clock the troops
moved into the lines and to their encampment.

Tlie loss of the Yagers is three men killed ; one officer, one
sergeant, twenty-six men wounded, and five missing. That of
the rebels is very considerable ; intelligence was received that
they embarked one hundred and one wounded men at Sing
Sing, and sent them up the Xorth Eiver, besides a great many

456 niARY OF THE REVOr.UTION'. [1Y81.

who died of tlieir wounds before they reached that pLace, and
one officer and seventeen men who were left on the field, with
seventeen stands of arms.'

July 11. — The rebel chiefs are pnt to their trumps to keep
their party alive, under the increasing diffidence of the people
after so many repeated impositions. The current
lie lately minted at New Windsor, New York, to
bring oiit the militia once moi-e to the ShamUes, is that the
French fleet from the "West Indies is soon to appear off New
York, from which it is added, the British are prejxiring to run
away. And thus they are promised, if they will rise, plunder
and victory without fighting and bloodshed. To give color to
this new fraud, the French are brought forAvard from Khodo
Island ; wagons are moving night and day with flour from tlio
westward ; some troops detached to meet the French in West-
chester county from Washington's pitiful army in the High-
lands, and the eastern road is encumbered with mortars, cannon,
and stores, dragged from Boston. But neither vaunting and
confident assurances, nor guileful pretexts, will any longer
suffice to form the host, which, according to the Congress re-
solve of the 21st of September last, was by the 1st of January
to have amounted to thirty odd thousand.

George ! George ! the paralytic state of your cause is too man-
ifest to deceive a people who have bought wisdom at the ex-
pense of t\\e\v fortunes and hlood. Tliey remember
To Washington, ^^q ji^gi^Qy^g -^i^ uttercd lu general orders to your
whole army on the 20th of August, 1YY6 :

" The general being informed, to his great surprise, that a
report prevails and is industriously spread far and wide, that
Lord Howe has made proposals of peace, his duty obliges him
to declare that no such offers have heen made hy Lm^d Howe y
but, on the contrary, by the best intelligence we can procure,
the army may expect an attack as soon as the wind and tide
prove fair." "

Do you wonder, after this, tliat the American husband-

' Kivington's Gazette, July 14.

"^ See extract from Ichabod Lewis's parole book, published in Rivington's
Gazette, April 11, 1781.

1781.] England's peojects discovered. 457

men no longer flock to your perfidious standard ? And can
you think so contemptibly of your countrymen as to imagine
that they do not discern your plans through the cobweb you are
throwing over the distress of your partisans for establishing a
tyranny in America, after penising your letter of the 28th of
March last, to Mr. Harrison, who left your Congress at little
York, for fighting the overtures to peaceful negotiations with
General Howe, communicated by Mr. John Brown ? Your own
words in that letter are too well remembered not to disclose the
intention of the artifices now practising upon the people : —

" You will readily perceive from the foregoing, that there
is little probability of adding to the force already ordered
to the southward ; for, should the battalions from New Jersey
to New Hampshire, inclusive, be completed, (a thing not to be
expected,) we shall, after the necessary detachments for the
frontiers and other purposes are made, have an army barely
suflicient to keej) the enemy in check in New York."

Deny this letter if you dare, murderer of Andre ! murderer
of those Americans who sought liberty, but have lost their
lives in your baneful projects and services, by trusting to the
never to be forgotten false and bloody orders of 1776.'

July 17. — Congeess have had before them a number of
ofiicial letters from the ministry in Britain, to theii- command-
er-in-chief, and other heads of departments in Enjriands projecta
America ; they were intercepted in a packet Discovered
taken in Europe, and transmitted by Dr. Franklin. By the
letters of Lord G. Germaine to Sir Henry Clinton, it appears
that the expectation of a speedy conquest was fully impressed
on the British cabinet, and that administration already re-
gretted their profli'ered clemency, (through their commissioners,)
held out in their proclamations. He observes to General Clin-
ton and the other commissioners, that their offers of pardon
were not sufiiciently guarded with excejitions, and that the
supplicants for pardon being re-admitted into a full enjoy-
ment of the rights exercised under their former connection,

' Rivington's Gazette, July 11.

458 DIAJRY OF THE KETOLUTION. [1781.

was more than government ever intended to grant, or in other
Avords, that they meant to deprive them of their characters,
and constitnte their governments more to the will of the Parlia-
ment. He expresses much satisfaction at the general's infor-
mation, that there were more provincials in his Majesty's ser-
vice in America, than that of the United States ; but laments
the mortifying reflection, that under these circumstances, the
rebellion should have continued so long. His lordship repre-
hends General Clinton's generosity in recommending so many
of the provincial corjas to be put on the British establishment,
and then, secure of victory, gives such a construction to his
Majesty's directions on that siibject, as to restrict the benefits
of it to very few.

Tliese instances serve to show (if it remained to be proved)
what would be the treatment of the friends to America in it,
if his (Germaine's) imaginary ideas of success were to be re-
alized. No sooner have they any foundation for such a hope,
than they begin to estimate the value, and regret the loss, of
estates secured under former submissions, and wish to dis-
charge from their service, Avithout the rewai'ds held out former-
ly, those whom they have seduced to be instrumental in ac-
complishing their supposed conquests. Lord G. Germaine
speaks of the Carolinas and Georgia as totally reduced, and has
no doubt but that Virginia must immediately yield to the ac-
tivity and enterprise of Lord Cornwallis, supported by so
powerful an army. His lordship speaks of an expedition
which had been projected against the Chesapeake, approves
of it, and urges General Clinton to push it with vigor. It was
intended to send a number of troops to the head of it to act
against Maryland and Pennsylvania, and establish a place of
security for the reception of the loyal subjects in those States.
Tlie reverse of fortiine to the southward hath probably delayed
the execiition of this plan, and we hope the event of the oper-
ations there and elsewhere, will oblige the enemy totally to
abandon it. It appears from Germaine's letters, that they in-
tended to fix a permanent port at Elizabeth Eiver.'

' Extract of a letter from Philadelphia in the Pennsylvania Packet, August 2.

1781.] ACTION AT TAKEYTOWN. 459

JuLT 20. — On Sunday evening, the loth instant, two
sloops of war, two tenders, and one galley, all British, came up
Action at Tariy- Hudsou Kivcr, with intention, as is supposed, to
town, New York. (Jestroy the stores then moving from "West Point
to the army. There were at that time two sloops going down
the river, laden with cannon and powder. As soon as they
discovered the enemy, they put about and stood in for Tarry-
town, where they ran aground. The enemy having a fair wind
and tide, came up the river so fast that it was impossible to
march infantry down in time to unload or protect the stores,
as there were no troops at Tarrytown, except a sergeant's
guard of French infantry. Colonel Sheldon (whose regiment
lay at Dobb's Ferry) immediately marched his mounted dra-
goons to the place, where he ordered his men to dismount and
assist to imload the stores, which was done with great despatch.
By this time the enemy having come to anchor off Tarrytown,
began a heavy cajmonade, ujider cover of which they sent two
gunboats and four barges to destroy the vessels. Captain
Hurlbert, of the second regiment of light dragoons, was sta-
tioned on board one of them with twelve men, armed only with
pistols and swords ; he kept his men concealed till the enemy
were alongside, when he gave them a fire, which they retiirned
and killed one of his men. Captain Hurlbert iinding himself
surrounded, ordered his men to jvimp overboard and make for
the shore, which they did, he following ; the enemy immedi-
ately boarded and set fire to the vessels, but were obliged im-
mediately to retire, owing to the severe fire that was kept up
by the dragoons and French guard. Captain Hurlbert, Cap-
tain-Lieutenant Miles, Quartermaster Shaylor, and others, jump-
ed into the river and made for the sloops, in order to extin-
guish the fire, which they did, and saved the vessels ; while
in the water. Captain Hurlbert received a musket ball through
the thigh, but is now in a fair way to do well. About day-
light. General Howe arrived with a division of troops and
some artillery, a battery was opened on the enemy, which
obliged them to slip their cables and fall down tlie river about
two miles, where they continued tillTuesday about noon, when
General Howe again opened a battery on them, and obliged

4G0 DIAET OF THE KEVOLUTION. [1781.

them to make sail v.]) the river. Tliey continued near Taller's
Point till near Tluirsday, during which they sent their gun-
boats on shore, and burnt the elegant house of Captain E.obert,
at Haverstraw. About noon, taking advantage of a fair wind
and tide, they made sail and stood down the river. When
coming near Dobb's Ferry, (where the Americans had erected
a battery of two eighteen-pounders, two French brass twelve,
and seven half-inch howitzers,) they (the Americans) com-
menced a heavy fire on them from the works, on both sides
of the river ; the British returned the fire, but did not the least
damage. The largest of their ships sustained the greatest
damage, many shot were fired through her, and one of our
shells bursting on board her, threw theni into great confusion ;
eighteen or twenty of their men jumped overboard, three or
four of whom swam on shore, and the rest are supposed to be
drowned.'

JuLT 26. — Lord Coenwallis has returned over James

River to Portsmouth, Yirginia, having detached all his cavalry

to Carolina. Most disgracefully has he finished

Cornwallis. , -, . . . , i „ -^t. . .

a plundermg excursion into the heart oi V irgima.
It is now clear that all ideas of conquest are ended with his
lordship. To the immortal honor of Virginia, scarcely a citi-
zen of that State joined the enemy; they abandoned and lost
all, sooner than take refuge under the standards of the British."

New Jersey Gazette, August 8. General Washington, in the general orders
of July 19, notices this afiair as follows; — "The Commander-in-chief is exceed-
ingly pleased with the conduct of Major-General Howe, for marching with so much
alacrity and rapidity to the defence of the stores at Tarrytown, and repulsing the
enemy from thence. He requests General Howe, and all the officers and soldiers
of the American and French armies who were employed on the occasion, to ac-
cept this public acknowledgment of their services.

" The gallant behavior and spirited exertions of Colonel Sheldon and Captain
Hurlbert, of the 2d regiment of dragoons ; Captain-Lieutenant Miles of the artil-
lery, and Lieutenant Sliaylor of the 4th Connecticut regiment, previous to the ar-
rival of the troops, in extinguishing the flames of the vessels which had been set
on fire by the enemy, and preserving the whole of tlie ordnance and stores from
destruction, entitle them to the most distinguished notice and applause of their

^ >few Jersey Gazette, August 15,

1781.] THE JEESEY PRISON SUIP. 461

During Benedict Arnold's military speculations in Vir-
ginia, lie took an American captain prisoner. After some
general conversation with the captain, he asked Anecdote of
him what he thought the Americans would do Amoid.
with him if they caught him ? The captain at first declined
giving him an answer, but upon being repeatedly urged to it,
he said : " Why, sir, if I must answer your question you must
excuse my telling you the plain truth ; if my countrymen
should catch you, I believe they would lirst cut off that lame
leg, which was wounded in the cause of freedom and virtue,
and bury it with the honors of war, and afterwards hang the
remainder of your body in gibbets." '

August 1. — An American, now confined on board the Jer-
sey (vulgarly called Hell) prison-ship at New York says : —
" There is nothing but death or entering into the ^j^^ j^^,^^ p^^^^.
British service for me. Our ship company is re- ®'''p-
duced to a small number (by death and entering into the Brit-
ish service) of nineteen. There is a partial cartel arrived
which brought eleven prisoners, and the names of so many
as make up that number, sent from Boston by somebody.
Damn the villain that trades that way, though there are many
such that are making widows and fatherless children — a curse
on them all ! Tlie commissary told us one and all, to the num-
ber of four himdred men, that the whole fault lays on Boston,
and we might all be exchanged, biit they never cared about
us ; and he said the commissaries were rogues and liars.

" I am not able to give you even the outlines of mj' exile ;
but thus much will I infonn you, that we bury from six to
eleven men in a day ; we have two hundred more sick and
falling sick every day ; the sickness is the yellow fever, small-
pox, and in short every thing else that can be mentioned. I
had almost forgot to tell you, that our morning's salutation is,
' Eebels, turn out your dead ! ""

August 17. — A correspondent at Salisbury, in N"orth Caro-

' New Jersey Journal, August 1. ' Pennsylvania Packet, Sept. 4.

462 DIAEY OF THE EEVOLUTION. [1781.

lina, thus refers to the commander of the southern army : —
" Future ages will celebrate the name of that illustrious hero,

General G '^^^o, by his activity and superior military talents,

has, for more than eight months past, so often
baffled the British, alwaj^s superior in numbers and every
thing else except valor and military talents. Tlie Carolinas
will never forget General Greene, and the North State in par-
ticular will always acknowledge that it is to his abilities and
perseverance we owe our present promising condition. He
lias inspired our people with a spirit and confidence that rises
greatly above every opposition and distress. Our civil gov-
ernment has now acquired a better tone.

" Major Burnet and Colonel Morris, two of the general's

aids-de-camjj, have gone to the northward, I pi-esume on busi-

The ness of great importance ; those two young gen-

southern Army, tlemcu are an honor to their profession, and their
names ought never to be forgotten. Lideed, all that little
army have done and suftered more in the defence of their
country than can be expressed." '

August 24. — In the present unsettled state of things in
America, when the British are in possession of a part of the
Ecmarksofa southem Statcs, and when men's minds are dis-
caroiina Planter, tractcd between a love of property, and that at-
tention which should ever be paid to the solemn agreements
entered into by them at the commencement of the war, it may
not be amiss to throw the following remarks respecting our
situation, upon paper, convinced that it is not the case with
us, (as we believe it to be with the people of England,) that
we are unable to bear full liberty. In a republic where its
powers are well poised, liberty may be better preserved, than
by any monarchial government we know of, whatever forms
may exist in imagination. Tliose who have already enjoyed,
in any degree, the benefits of this establishment, will not, we
presume, easily give it up, and nm infinite hazards in endeav-
oring to obtain one a little better, even if they have the pros-
pect of attaining it.

■ New Jersey Journal, September 19.

1781.] KEMAEKS OF A CAKOLINIAN. 463

The American government is a good one, and must be
miicli better as soon as we have expelled the British from it,
and bnried in oblivion those prejudices which have done in-
finitely more harm than any thing else. From our unhappy
divisions, our enemies have derived more benefit than they
have ever done from the success of their arms ; they have
taken the advantage of our internal contentious, and endeav-
ored to crush us in this moment of adversity. These unfortu-
nate dissensions have contributed upon every occasion to de-
prive us of that strength, which is ever the attendant of nation-
al union. It is ridiculous to suppose that we can ever enter-
tain the same afiection for the people of Great Britain we for-
merly did, or even to expect the renewal of those blessings we
enjoyed under that government, previous to the Stamp Act.
While their manners remained entire, they corrected the vice
of their laws and softened them to their own temper, but in
all their late proceedings we see very few traces of that gen-
erosity, humanity, and dignity, which formerly characterized
them. "War seems to have suspended all the rvdes of moral
obligation ; civil wars strike deeply into the manners of the
people, vitiate their politics, coiTupt their morals, and even
pervert the natural taste and relish of equity and justice ; the
very names of afli'ection and kindred, which were the bond of
union while we agreed, are now become incentives to rage and
hatred.

It is too late to flatter ourselves that we shall not fall into
this misfortune. Experience has convinced us that we are not
exempt from the ordinary frailties of our nature, and that we
have nothing to hope for but irom. perseverance, that pillar of
fire, which can alone conduct us to the promised land.

Tlie affairs of Britain are certainly at this time in a most
distressing situation ; at war with France, Spain, Holland, and
America. She seems tamely to acquiesce in the loss of her
East and West India possessions, in the destruction of her
commerce, and in the diminution of her credit, merely to
cherish the delusive idea of reducing America ; but after all
her exertions, she must be convinced it is now wholly impossi-
ble that America can ever be conquered. Hot a single dis-

464 DIARY OF THE EEVOLtlTION. [1781.

triet tlirougliout our extensive continent has yet voluntarily
submitted. Even in Carolina and Georgia (where from the
loss of the army in Charleston, they had the fairest opportuni-
ties) they now only occupy the spot they encamp on, and no
more. Wherever they move they spread devastation and hor-
ror, and their perfidy and cruelties invariably tend to unite
the people more firmly in their opposition.

At a time when we are insulted by enemies, long accus-
tomed to conquer, when some of our governments are not so
well established as we could wish, and their existence endan-
gered, it is too late to inquire minutely into the causes which
have brought us into this situation. The conjuncture calls for
the immediate exertion of whatever wisdom or vigor is left
among us, and the man who withholds his assistance, on any
pretence, is an enemy to his country. It is a common cause,
in which every one is concerned, and in which all should be
engaged ; the blunders of the ruling powers should be over-
looked, and the gratification of personal animosities should
give way to the public good of the community. At such a
crisis, to arouse the drooping spirit of the people, to encour-
age the timid, to revive the desponding, and to animate the
brave, is the duty of every friend to his country ; for by vigor-
ously resenting the injuries, and avenging tlie insults we have
received, we lay the most solid foundation of peace, independ-
ence, and safety."

AtTGUST 24. — ^The last division of the Portsmouth garrison
arrived last evening at Torktown, in Virginia. Gloucester
Affairs at Poiut is strongly fortified, where Colonel Dundas
Torktown, Va. commauds, having -svith him the 80th regiment,
that of the Hessian Prince Hereditaire, and Colonel Simcoe's.
The rest of the army are encamped immediately in front of
the town. At eight o'clock last night all the light infantry and
the legion, marched towards Williamsburgh. It is conjectured
they have fallen in with a certain Lieutenant-Colonel Innes
before this, who commands the advance corps of the Marquis

■ A " Carolina Planter," in the Pennsylvania Packet, August 28.

1781.] BATTLE OFF B.VENEGAT. 465

de la Fayette's people. He lias been very busy of late in col-
lecting vast nvimbers of cattle for the American army, and it
is not improbable tliat the Colonels Abercrombie and Tarleton
before snnset may release a tolerable portion of them, if they
can only overtake that body of freebooters. Tlie marqnis's
main body is about twenty miles from Williamsbnrgh ; a party
of four himdred of them have been routed, about twenty
killed, and as many made prisoners by Colonel Tarleton.'

About three o'clock last Tuesday afternoon, a very severe
action was fought between the whale boat Surprise, Captain
Thompson, and her consort, both their crews con- ^^^^^^^g^^^^^„^^
sisting of twenty-six men, and two rebel whale ^""^ '''"'^°^-
boats belonging to Philadeljihia, ofl' Little Baruegat, on the
coast of New Jersey. The conilict lasted more than an hour,
within pistol shot, in which Captain Thompson received a dan-
gerous wound in the thigh ; notwithstanding which he con-
tinued the contest, until the rebels took to their oars, first
throwing over four of their dead. -Among their number, it is
said, was one of their captains, named Eccles.

Captain Tliompson's behavior on this occasion does him
miich credit, and demands the tribute of praise from every
loyal heart. It is remarkable that after having received a
swivel ball in his groin, he discharged his fusee twice ; and when
the anguish of his wound had disqualified him for the more
active part of the contest, he still continued giving orders in
a supine posture, and exerting his men, who were all refugees,
not to strike the colors to the rebels. This relation is given
the public not to magnify the action in its immediate conse-
quence, biTt as a clear testimony of the more elevated bravery
of those who have nobly sacrificed their domestic ease and en-
joyments, to the best of all principles, that of loyalty.

The rebel army, under the command of General Washing-
ton, left their encampment at Wliite Plains, in Westchester
county, last Monday, (20th,) and some of the Continental troops

' Extract of a letter from an officer, dated Torktown, ^'a., August 24, in Riv-
ington's Gazette, September 1.
Vol. II.— 30

466 DIAEY OF THE REVOLUTION. [1781.

are gone up the North Elver. Tlie French army crossed the

Hudson yesterday, and proceeded on their march for Chatham,

Washington's eight milcs from Elizabethtown, where their

Array lo.ives -n ^ i , .i t

White Plains, artiucers have been building ovens, &c., for
more than ten days. Part of Dayton's brigade is also at
Chatham, in Jersey, and a York provincial regiment is now
stationed at a place called Fox Hall, foiir miles from Newark,
and seven from Elizabethtown ; so that the number of troops
now in that neighborhood amoimt to at least six thousand,
and their greatest distance from Staten Island is not more
than nine miles.'

August 25. — ^Eivington, in the Royal Gazette of this day,
republishes^ the following proclamation by Governor Living-
GoT. Livingston's ^^^^ '^^ '^'^^ Jersey, offering a reward for Ensign
Proclamation, j^fgody aud hls party, with a counter proclama-
tion from Moody : —

" Whereas it has been represented to me that the persons
hereinafter mentioned, have been guilty of atrocious oifences,
and have committed divers robberies, thefts, and other felonies
in this State. I have therefore thought fit, by and with the
advice of the Honorable Privy Council of this State, to issue
this proclamation, hereby promising the rewards herein men-
tioned, to any person or persons who shall apprehend and se-
cure in any gaol of this State, any or either of the following
persons or oifenders, to wit : Caleb Sweesy, James O'Hara,
John Moody, and Gysbert Eyberlin, the sum of two hundred
dollars of the bills of credit issued on the faith of this State.

" Given under my hand and seal at arms, at Trenton, the
third day of August, 1781, and in the fifth year of the inde-
pendence of America. "\Vil. Livingston."

[It may be proper to intimate that Mr. Moody has succeed-
ed in two enterprises, twice interrupting the mails from the
eastern to the southern provinces, aud carried them to head-
quarters in New York.']

' Gaine's Mercury, August 27.

' The proclamation was first published in the New Jersey Journal. — Sec page
308, ante. ' Note by Rivington.

1Y81.] EXECUTION OF HATNE. 467

Hue and Cry : Two Hundred Guineas Reward.

" Whereas a certain William Livingston, late an Attomey-
at-La^v, and now a lawless usurper and incorrigible rebel, stands
convicted in the minds of all honest men, as well Mood/s counter
as in his own conscience, of many atrocious crimes 'Pr»<:'™i'tt<">-
and offences against God and the king, and among many
other treasonable practices, has lately, with malicious and
murderous intention, published a seditious advertisement in a
rebel newspaper, oifering a reward, of what he calls two hun-
dred State dollars,^ to an assassin who shall take and deliver
me and three other loyalists into the power of him, the said
William Livingston.

" I do therefore hereby promise to pay the sum of two
Inindred guineas, true money, to the person or persons who
shall bring the said William Livmgston alive into Kew York,
and deliver him into the custody of Captain Cunningham, so
that he may be duly lodged in the provost, till the approach-
ing extinction of the rebellion, then to be brought to trial for
his numerous crimes and offences aforesaid. Li the mean
time, if his whole person cannot be brought in, half the sum
above specified will be paid for his eaes and nose, which are
too well known, and too remarkable to be mistaken. Observe,
however, that his life must not be attempted, because that
would be to follow his example of exciting the villanous prac-
tice of assassination, and because his death at present, would
defraud Jack Ketch of a future perquisite.

" Given under my hand and seal at arms, in K^ew York,
this twenty-third day of August, 1781, (a style which I have
surely as miich right to assume as William Livingston, or any
other rebel usurper.) J. Moody.

" The several printers on the continent are requested to in-
sert the above in their newspapers."

August 26. — Colonel Isaac IlAYinj was, by a mandate
of Balfour's, ignomiuiously hanged in Charleston, South Caro-
lina, on the fom-th instant. After the execution, jj^ecution of
his young son was permitted to carry his father's <^°io°ei uaj-ne.
body and inter it at his plantation at Ponper, which was done

468 DIAKY OF THE KEVOLUTION. [ITSl.

on Sunday evening last, (19th.) Colonel Hayne was a most
amiable character, highly respected, and had a most extensive
influence. Nothing could strike deeper at the root of independ-
ence than this measure, if suffered to pass without retaliation ;
General Greene therefore has stopped all further exchanges,
avowed his intention of retaliation, and issued a proclama-
tion, setting forth his reasons, let them lead to what conse-
quences they may. Our countrymen breathe nothing but
revenge on this cruel occasion ; it will now unite them stronger
than ever, in prosecuting the war with the greatest vigor and
spite. Could the diabolical Balfour fall into our hands to
suffer the same ignominious death, it would be but a small
recompense for the loss of our worthy countryman ; but he
close in his strongholds in Charleston.'

Eaelt in the morning of the twenty-second instant, a party
of Indians and Tories, consisting of about four hundred, entered
the beautiful settlement of Warwarsing, situated on the great
road leading from Minisink" to Esopus, about thirty-five miles

' New Jersey Gazette, September 26 and October 10.

After the reduction of Charleston, Colonel Hayne had, ■with some restrictions,
subscribed to a declaration of allegiance to the King of Great Britain ; but after-
■ward, from an " open breach of contract " on the part of the British, and their
inability to afford him the promised protection for his allegiance, he was led to
consider himself released from his engagements, and, on solicitation, took the
command of a regiment of militia in CaroUna. Falhng into the hands of the
British while in arms, he was thrown into a loathsome provost ; and though he
was at first promised a trial, and had counsel prepared to justify his conduct by
the laws of nations, and the usages of war, yet this privilege was finally refused,
and he was ordered for execution. The royal Lieutenant-governor Bull and a
great number of the inhabitants of Charleston, both loyahsts and Americans, in-
terceded for his life. The ladies of that town generally signed a petition in his be-
half. His children, accompanied by some near relations, begged on their bended
knees for the life of their father. These intercessions, "drew tears from many a
hard eye ; " but the British commanders were inflexible. Colonel Hayne sub-
mitted to his destiny with decent firmness, composure, and dignity. "Thus fell,"
says Doctor Ramsey, " in the bloom of life, a brave officer, a worthy citizen, a
just and upright man, furnishing an example of heroism in death, that extorted
a confession from his enemies, that though he did not die in a good cause, he must
at least have acted from a persuasion of its being so." — Holmes' Annals, ii. 33Y.

' Minisink is situated among the Shawangunk Mountains, about twelve miles
from Goshen, in Orange county, New York.

17S1.] BUKNING OF AVAEWAKSING. 469

from the former. At their first coming to the place, they were
hailed by a sentinel who was at the gate of a picket fort
where there was a sergeant's guard kept, (which ^^^ Bnmin of
were the only soldiers in that quarter ;) they not "'^'"warsiDg.
making any answer, induced the sentinel to fire, and run with-
in the fort, which alarmed the garrison. The enemy kept iip
a constant fire upon the fort for some time, but without effect,
and at last retired in confusion, with the loss of three killed
and two wounded. Tliey then proceeded to burning and
j)lundering the place. Tlie inhabitants being alarmed by the
firing at the fort, all made their escape, except one, John
Kittle, whom they killed. The loss of these poor people is
very great ; the fate of an hour reduced them from a state of
ease and affiuence to want and beggary. Thirteen elegant
dwelling-houses with all the out-buildings and furniture, four-
teen spacious barns filled with wheat, besides barracks, stables,
stacks of hay, and grain, were all consumed ; between sixty
and seventy horses, mostly very fine, and a great number of
cattle, sheep, and hogs, were driven off. Colonel Pawling,
getting intelligence of the above, immediately collected about
two hundred New York levies and militia, and piirsued them
about forty miles, but was not able to overtake them. It ap-
pears that they fied in confusion, as they left a considerable
quantity of their pliinder behind them in many places. By a
white man who has been with them for three years, and made
his escape while Warwarsing was in flames, we learn that this
party was from Niagara, and that they were four weeks and
three days on their way; that they were exceedingly distressed
for want of provisions, insomuch that they eat up their pack-
horses and dogs. He adds that the gan-ison of Niagara was in
a melancholy situation for want of provisions and the necessa-
ries of life ; and that the Tories there most bitterly execrate
the day they were deluded by the tyrant emissaries to take up
arms against their native country.'

August 27. — A writer of South Carolina presents the fol-

' Pennsylvania Gazette, October 3.

470 DIAHY OF THE EEVOLUTION. [1781.

lowing address to Lord Cornwallis : — " My lord, — As a gen-
erous enemy I mean to address you with candor. I possess not
"Leonidas"to *^^® acrimony of a satirist nor the disposition to
cornwaiiis. eucouragc it. I wish only to approach you with
the confidence of truth, and by telling you what you really
are, make you reflect on what you really may be.

" Your panegyrist in the Charleston paper, has labored to
give a brilliant and finished portraiture of your military char-
acter. What he says of your qualities I believe in general
terms to be true. Your mental powers, I am told, are height-
ened and refined by a genteel and liberal education, and your
commerce with the world, it is said, has taught you a knowl-
edge of all the motives of action, and the principles which are
best calculated to impose upon the credulity of the world.

" To give a polish to your military achievements, I observe
by your public letters, is the peculiar object of your attention ;
the great outlines by which truth alone is to be ascertained,
are so lost in the pomp of your descriptions, that the garb
seems better suited to the glitter of a Koman triumph, than
the ornament of a little action. But you wrested the laurels
from the conqueror of Burgoyne, and fought the battle of Cam-
den ; yes, my lord, you did ; and for your conduct, deserve to be
handed down to posterity with some degree of credit. It was
a stroke, indeed, severe and painful to our interest, but you
did not improve the advantages as a great man ought to have
done ; it was far, very far from being decisive, and by no
means so very important, my lord, as you would fain make
your roijal master and the world in general believe it Avas.
"Who can read your publications without pitjnng our expiring
Jiherties ? Who is there that lives three thoiisand miles from
the scene of action, but from your representation would sup-
pose that all America had fallen prostrate at your feet ? Had
Csesar given such a pufl" to the battle of Pharsalia, it would,
in the same ratio, have gone infinitely beyond the powers of
any language to encompass the magnitiide of its consequences.
As it is, it only n^ns parallel with your famous battle of Cam-
den, and the conqueror of the world now finds a competitor
for fame in the Earl of Cornwaiiis.

1781.] "leonidas" to coEinvAXLis. 471

" The gloss given to the battle of Guilford is equally mge-
nioits ; but why you should relate circumstances so palpably
erroneous, is something so very strange, and of a nature so
very extraordinary, (when you might have confined yourself to
truths that would reflect equal honor on your conduct without
betraying so much ingenuity,) that I am willing to suppose
your letter had either been altered by the ministry in England,
or that the printer, in a fit of negligent industry, had published
the rough original instead of the corrected copy. You assert,
with great confidence, that Colonel Tarleton had given Lieu-
tenant-Colonel Lee a handsome drubbmg in the morning of
the action ; whereas, on the other hand, that gallant partisan
drove Tarleton's dragoons up to the head of the British column,
cut down several of them in theii' flight, killed a captain of the
guards, and halted your whole army (which was the object of
his meeting you) for upwards of an hour. During your halt,
General Greene was busily employed in arranging his little
army in order of battle. 1 will here beg leave to remark, my
lord, that our force consisted chiefly of militia, and our num-
bers on that day did not exceed three thousand three hundred
men ; the British army, on the other hand, consisted of at
least twenty-five hundred old veteran soldiers, inured to
action, and made firm by discipline to oppose them. Wlien
you advanced, the British troops rushed on with a confidence
that did honor to themselves and their country, but it must be
acknowledged, my lord, that you met with a warm reception,
and that the greater part of the militia poured into your ranks
the severest and longest fire, that perhaps ever was known by
any irregular body of men upon any former occasion. You
were heard to acknowledge at Cross Creek, that the Virginia
militia were nearly equal to regulars, and that if the North
Carolinians had made the same opposition, your army must
have been inevitably ruined. Your old veterans were several
times staggered, victory for some minutes appeared doubtful,
and so very much cut to pieces were they when they got up
to the Continental troops, that had it not been for an unlucky
circumstance which occasioned a part of the Maryland line to
give wav, we should have balanced the battle of Camden, and

472 DIAEY OF THE EEVOLUTION. [1T81.

your lordship -n^ould no longer have been thought the Hannibal
of the British army. Whilst every thing was giving way, and
a retreat was ordered, the first regiment of Marylanders made
a charge, and being seconded by the horse, the guards were cut
to pieces, and a check given to tlie pursuit of your whole army ;
whilst Mr. Tarleton, at an awful distance, with three times the
number of horse that Colonel Washington had on the field,
beheld with astonishment, such an instance of superior firm-
ness. Tet, my lord, notwithstanding those violent efi"orts, you
only lost between four and five hiuidred men. Were I allow-
ed the liberty of judging upon this occasion, I should deter-
mine nothing short of seven hundred. It is certain a return
was brought from your orderly ofiice, which made your loss in
killed, wounded, and taken, six hundred and sixty-three men,
exclusive of oflacers ; but if your loss was so very trifling as
you aiTect to represent, how comes it about that you should
retreat before us Avith such precipitation, three days after the
action ? And why should your officers, particularly those who
have seen the longest service, declare, upon every occasion,
that it was the hottest and bloodiest action, by a very great
deal, that had happened in America since the revolution ? And
Avhy, great sir, should you leave so many of your wounded be-
hind you at New Jordan, with a request that we should take
charge of them in your absence? All these circumstances
seem to prove your loss to be heavy, and fix upon you all the
consequences of a defeat, or, surely, my lord, as a great general,
you ought to have fought us again. We pushed you hard,
you must acknowledge, and offered you opportunities of giving
us battle every day during the pursuit ; but, as if your army
had been composed of so many nimble-footed Mercuries, you
flew with the celerity of a light corps, and by making a timely
escape over Deep Eiver, saved the destruction of your army.
You were permitted to go and enjoy your visionary conquests
in Wilmington, while General Greene moved into South
Carolina and Georgia, and recovered those two States from
the most oj^pressive tyranny. From Wilmington you took
your course to Virginia, triumphing as you went, in the ruin
of individuals, without one single prospect of gaining any ad-

17S1.] -'leonidas" to coenwallis. 473

vantage, either to j'OTirself or to the nation for "which you
fight. But here, my lord, I must carry yoix back to the mem-
orable 17th of January, wheu the hero of the British legion
delivered Tip his laurels to the eminently great General Mor-
gan of the American army. What a scene for a pen like
yours ! Ton have handled it indeed, my lord, with an art pecu-
liar to yovii-self. No man biit you dare give it such a touch ;
Avhils tit labors for a ray of truth, it holds out the speciousness
oifads.

" You acknowledge the stroke to be unexpected, but will not
allow the consequence of a defeat. Tou say four hundred men
were killed, wounded, and taken, but that Tarleton retook his
baggage, and gave Colonel Washington a drubbing. Is it
possible, my lord, that you dare deceive your eomitrymen
with such a tale? Where was the necessity of concealing
facts that miist force themselves upon the world ? If you are
so ignorant of circumstances, I will inform you that upwards
of one hundred were killed on the field, two hundred wounded,
and that five hundred and thirty were brought ofi" prisoners,
after a pursuit of twenty miles. It was the most finished
defeat I ever heard of. Mr. Tarleton, although at the head of
three hundred cavahy, was routed, and lost near a hundred of
his best dragoons, by Lieutenant-Colonel Washington, who
appeared at the head of only ninety. Wliilst your favorite
hero had nothing to oppose but a few raw and undisciplined
militia, he did great wonders, every newspaper was filled
with eulogiums, and England was intoxicated with his worth.
But when disciplined soldiers met him, all the honors he had
ever reaped were lost, and that same Tarleton who was but as
yesterday the terror of the militia, is now the object of their
ridicule and contempt. Tou, my lord, owe some of your fame
to this same kind of success, as yet you have never had a
regular force equal to your own to. contend with ; but I wish
not to detract from your military character ; it is a good one,
and wore you engaged in any other caiise it would be a great
one. You have, by flashes of success, raised your name to a
very considerable pitch ; but take care that some ill-fated blow
does not level you with your friend Tarleton. Fortime is

474 DIAEY OF THE EEVOLTJTION. [1781.

wliimsical, and often plays tricks with characters who Tenture
as mnch as yon do. At present yon are the admiration of
yonr countrymen, biit one ill-fated stroke may make yon the
object of their resentment. America has felt too sensibly yonr
insults ever to let an ai-my like yours trample upon her liber-
ties while she has the means of preventing it. "When your
royal master shall be able to maintain a force of two hundred
thousand men on the continent of America, then, and not till
then, my lord, can he possibly hope for conquest over a free
and independent people." '

AtJGTJST 29. — A coEEESPONDENT at Camden, in South Caro-
lina, says : — " Every officer in the line of the Southern army,
that was present, has addressed General Greene

Colonel Hayne. . n r-i ■, ■, -tt

on the late execution oi Colonel Hayne, praymg
that the Lex Talionis shall follow. In consequence of which
the general has issued his proclamation to that purpose, and
by a flag sent to the commandant of Charleston, has forward-
ed him copies of the address and proclamation, which sets
forth : ' That retaliation shall immediately take place, not on
the Tory militia officers, but it shall fall on the heads of regu-
lar British officers.' This will now open a new scene of blood-
shed, which in the end the British will have reason sorely to
repent. "We have three British officers with us prisoners, who
are quaking with fear, on the result of this j^roclaraation, but
they are not of sufficient rank to become objects ; they tell lis
that Colonel Balfour was very averse to the measures taken
against Colonel Hayne, and throw all the blame on Lord Haw-
don and Colonel Gould. However, this gains little credit here,
as the character of the commandant for his cruelty, persecu-
tion, and hypocrisy is so well established, that we are certain
that he would not have foregone the great pleasure of giving
his fiat to the execution of an American for the universe, as
this cruel piece of baseness will the more endear him to his
sovereign."

' " Leonidas," in the Pennsylvania Packet, September 20.
" The following is General Greene's proclamation: — A PnoCLAMATiON. —
Whereas on the fourth day of the present month, Colonel Isaac Hayne, command-

1781.] WASHINGTON AT rillLADELrUIA. 4:<.'J^

" General Greene, with tlie army, left Camden day before
yesterday, on his march towards the enemy at Congarees, and
we imagine he crossed at Friday Ferry yesterday. A report
has just reached us that the enemy the night before last, on
receiving intelHgeuce of General Greene's movements, precipi-
tately left their encampment and marched oft', first setting
their huts and some hoiises on fire." '

Attgust 31. — Testeedat, at one o'clock in the afternoon,
his Excellency the commander-in-chief of the American armies,
accompanied by the Generals Eochambeau and ■,^^,jin„t„„ ^^
Chastellux, with their respective suites, arrived Pwiadciphia.
in Philadelphia. The general was received by the militia

ing a regiment of militia in the service of the United States, was captured by a
party of British troops, and after a rigorous confinement in the provost of Charles-
ton, most cruelly and unjustifiably condemned and executed, in open violation of
the cartel agreed upon between .the commanders of the two armies for the relief
and exchange of prisoners of war.

And whereas, it is no less the duty than the inclination of the army to resent
every violence offered to the good citizens of America, and disclaim those dis-
tinctions set up for discriminating between different orders of men found in
arms, in support of the independence of the United States, and as these vio-
lences are intended to deter the good people from acting agreeably to their polit-
ical interest and private inclination, and as the mode of trial and punishment
which follows these discriminations are no less opposite to the spirit of the British
constitution, than they are an unwarrantable attack upon the laws of humanity,
and the rights of free citizens of these United States ; I have therefore thought
fit to issue this my proclamation, expressly declaring it to be my intention to re-
taliate for all such inhuman insults, as often as they may occur.

And whereas the enemy seem willing to expose a few deluded inhabitants who
adhere to their interest, if they can but have the opportunity of sacrificing the many
who appear in support of our cause ; I do further declare it my intention to make
British REonLAR Officef.s, and not the deluded inhabitants who have joined their
army, subjects of retaliation. But while I am determined to resent every insult
that may be offered to the United States, for supporting their independence, I
cannot but regret the necessity of appeahng to measures so hurtful to the feelings
of humanity, and so contrary to those liberal principles on which I would choose
to carry on the war.

Given at head-quarters at Camden, the 26th day of August, IVSl, and in the
sixth year of American Independence.

By the General's command, Kathanael Greene.

Will Pierce, Jr., Aid and Secretary.
New York Packet, October 4.

476 DIAEY OF THE EEVOLTJTIOK. [1781.

light horse in the suburbs, and escorted into the town. He
stopped at the city tavern, and received the visits of several
gentlemen ; from thence he proceeded to the house of the Su-
perintendent of Finance, where he now has his head-quarters.
About three o'clock he went up to the State House, and paid
his respects to Congress. He then returned to the superin-
tendent's, where his Excellency the President of Congress,
with the generals before mentioned, General Knox, General
Moultrie, and several other gentlemen, had the pleasure of
dining with him. After dinner, some vessels belonging to the
port, and then lying in the stream, fired salutes to the differ-
ent toasts which were drank. In the evening the city was il-
luminated, and his Excellency walked through some of the
principal streets, attended by a numerous concourse of people,
eagerly pressing to see their beloved general.'

Septeshjek 4. — ^Yesterday, at his seat, near Carlisle, in
Pennsylvania, died. General William Thompson. Those who
General William ^^'''^'w his virtucs. Will remember and mention his
Thompson died, character with esteem. At the commencement
of the present war, he took an active and distinguished part
in the cause of liberty. Kecommended to Congress by his
spirit and military knowledge, by his great j)opularity, and by
his zeal for the interest of freedom, he was apjjointed by that
honorable body to the command of the first regiment raised in
Pennsylvania. When he joined the army before Boston, the
rank of first colonel in the service was assigned to him. At
the siege of that place, intrepidity, generosity, hospitality, and
manly candor, rendered his character the object of miiform
admiration and esteem.

Fortune, which had hitherto smiled upon him, forsook him
at a moment when she promised to lift him to the pinnacle of
fame. In a gallant attack upon the British at Three Bivers,"
lie was made a prisoner. His captivity was long and imbit-
tered ; his sensibility, generous and keen, was chiefly wounded

' Pennsylvania Packet, September 1 ; and Gaine'a Mercury, September 10 ;
8ee o!?o Thacher's Military Journal, p. 326.
' In Canada, in 1115.

17S1.] GENERAL WILLIAM THOMPSON. 477

by the reflection that he was precluded from signalizing him-
self in the defence of his country.

His death is considered as an event of imiversal concern
and lamentation. His funeral was the most respectable that
has ever been known at Carlisle. In the gi-eat number that
assembled on the melancholy occasion, scarcely was there one
person to be found who did not drop a tear to the memory of
the soldier, the patriot, and the friend.'

September 5. — ^Tnis day an engagement between the Brit-
ish fleet, under Admiral Graves, and the French, commanded
Naval EDsagemont ^J ^^ Grassc, took placc ofl^ the Chesapeake. The
off the Chesapeake. ;gj.gt Certain iiotice Admiral Graves received of
the French fleet being actually upon the coast, was from the
advanced ships of his fleet, this morning, when the French
were seen at an anchor, extending from Cape Henry to the
centre of the middle ground, (a shoal so called, which confines
the entrance into the Chesapeake,) apparently in three divi-
sions.

As the British fleet advanced with a fair wind, the French
got their ships under sail, and extending themselves in a line
of battle ahead, stretched out to seaward. The British ran
down upon an east and west line, with the wind at N.N.E.,
formed, and put themselves into order and preparation for
battle. As they advanced toward the shoal of the middle,
they were prepared to veer by signal, the whole fleet together,
to bring them upon the same tack with the French, who were
all this time forming the line as they advanced to sea.

Tlie moment it was no longer safe for the British van to
advance further, on account of the shoal, the fleet wore together,
and came to the same tack with the French, and formed a line
ahead nearly parallel with them, with their main top-sails
square, to let the French van-guard advance until the British
could operate to advantage.

Tlie French came forward slowly, and showed twenty-four
large ships of their line of battle. The British formed nine-
teen in theirs.

' Pennsylvania Packet, September 15.

478 DIAItT OF THE EEVOLITTION. [1781.

The French A'an had extended themselves considerably too
mnch from tlieir own centre, and seemed to present the favor-
able moment for attack, while the British line had been con-
tinually pressed down to apjiroach them as near as possible ;
and the moment the French van betrayed their apprehension
of onr design by bearmg away, the signal for a close action
was made, and tlie signal for the line taken down, that noth-
ing might cross the opportunity.

Eear- Admiral Drake's division composed the van of the Brit-
ish line ; Kear-Admiral Sir Samuel Hood, Bart., that of the rear.

Tlie action began at a quarter after four, about the fourth or
fifth ship, and in a few minutes extended from the van to the
second ship astern of the centre. In the van the fight was
very close and sharp for some time, and continued so until the
French ships put before the wind to prevent being cut wp.
Their centre and rear then pushed forward and kept much from
the wind as they approached the British centre, appearing to
have little more in view than to advance far enough to receive
their own van, who were nearly before the wind, and the bet-
ter to effect this purpose, they constantly declined close action
with the centre of the British fleet.

Every necessary signal was made to urge a close as well as
general action, which Count De Grasse appeared desirous to
decline, and he did not permit the British rear to close with
him, which prevented that part of the fleet from having any
share of the action.

All firing ceased on both sides soon after sunset. About ten
o'clock it was made known to the British admiral by two frig-
ates, which had been sent throughout the line, that several of
the ships of the van were not capable of keeping extended with
the enemy, having siiffered so much in their masts and rigging,
they must attend to their security or be dismasted ; that two of
the ships which came very leaky from the West Indies, had
aggravated their complaints, and one of them could only be
kept free with all her pumps.'

' The two fleets remained near each other for five successive days, at times
very close. The French, it was visible, had received much damage to their van
ships, and from thence quite on the next ahead of the admiral's ship ; — but our

1781.] AENOLD AT NEW LONDON. 479

Septembee 6. — ^This morning about daybreak, twenty-four
sail of British shipping appeared to the westward of the harbor
of New Loudon, in Connecticiit. By many they ^^^^a^f^cv
were supposed to be a plundering party, after stock. London, conn.
Alarm guns were inmiediately fired, but the discharge of can-
non in the harbor has become so frequent of late, that they
answered little or no piu'pose. A few of tlie inhabitants wlio
were equipped, advanced towards the place where the enemy
were thought likely to make their landing, and manceuvred on
the heights adjacent, until the British, at about nine o'clock,
landed in two divisions of about eight hundred men each, one
of them at Brown's farm, near the light-house, the other at
Groton Point. Tlie division that landed near the light-house,
marched up the road, lieeping out large flankmg parties, who
were attacked in diiferent places on their march by the in-
habitants, who had spirit and resolution enough to oppose theii-
progress ; the main body proceeded to Isew London, and set
fire to the stores on the beach, and immediately after to the
dwellmg-houses lying on the mill cove. Tlie scattered fire of
the little parties of Americans, unsupported by their neighbors

masts and yards had suffered much more, apparently. This enabled the French to
gain the wind, and two changes of wind much in their favor, prevented the British
recovering it. No time or effort was neglected which could put the British in
proper order ; for the French, with their superiority of nuraljcrs, ought certainly
to have made an attack. On the tenth, the Terrible could no longer resist her
leaks, and the fleet was obUged to bring to, as well to examine as to give some
time to shift some topmasts. This w.as done at night, and the next morning Ad-
miral Graves saw no more of the French, who certainly pushed to regain the
Chesapeake, having been driven a great way to the southward.

The day being calm, the Terrible was dismantled and set on fire, and several
of the West India squadron, that had very little bread on board, and but a few
days' water, were supplied from other ships of the fleet, when the whole moved to-
wards Cape Henry, which we made on the fourteenth. Here we found the French
fleet had placed themselves so advantageously between the sands, as to give no
probability of our being able to force them, or get any succor up to York River,
and as it became absolutely necessary to shelter the fleet before the approaching
equinox, (as a gale of wind, by dismantling our ships, might do us more injury than
a general action,) we returned to New York.

The British lost in the action one lieutenant and ninety men killed, and two
hundred and forty-six wounded, — one captain having lost his leg. — iYew York
Gazette, Sept. 24.

480 DIARY OF THE EEVOLUTION. [1781.

more distant, galled them so that they soon began to retire,
setting fire to stores and dwelling-houses promiscuously in
their way ; the fire from the stores communicated to the ship-
ping that lay at the wharves ; a number were burnt, others
swung to singly and remained unhurt. At four o'clock they
began to quit the town in great precipitation, and were jJursued
with the spirit and ardor of veterans and driven on board their
boats. Five of the British were killed, and about twenty
wounded ; among the latter is a Hessian captain, who is a
prisoner, as are seven others. The Americans lost four killed,
and ten or twelve wounded, none mortally.

The most valuable part of Kew London is reduced to ashes,
with all the stores. Fort Trumbull not being tenable on the
land side, was evaciiated as the British advanced, and the few
men in it crossed the river to Fort Griswold on Groton Hill,
which was soon after invested by the division that landed at
the point. The fort having in it only about one hundred and
twenty men, chiefly militia hastily collected, was defended
with the greatest resolution and bravery, and the British were
once repulsed ; but the fort being out of repair, could not be
defended by such a handful of men, though brave and deter-
mined, against so superior a number. They did all that men
of spirit and bravery, in such a situation, could do ; but after
having a number of tlieir party killed and wounded, they
found that further resistance would be in vain, and resigned
the fort. Lumediately on their surrender, the valiant Colonel
Ledyard, whose fate in a particular manner is much lamented,
and seventy other officers and men, most of whom were heads
of families, were murdered. Tlie British lost a Major Mont-
gomery, and forty-one officers and men in the attack ; they were
found buried near the fort ; their wounded were caiTied off.

Soon after the British got possession of the fort, they set fire
to and burnt a number of dwelling-houses and stores on Gro-
ton Bank, and embarked about sunset, taking with them sun-
dry of the inhabitants of New London and Groton. A Colonel
Eyre, who commanded the division at Groton, was wounded,
and, it is said, died on board the fleet. About fifteen sail of
with effects of the inhabitants of New London, retreat-

1781.] EXECUTION 01" COLONEL HATNE. 481

ed up the river on the approach of the enemy, and were saved,
while four otliers remained in the harbor imtonched. The
troops were commanded by that infamous traitor to his coun-
try, Benedict Arnold, who headed the division which marched
into New London.

By this calamity, it is judged that more than one hundred
families are deprived of their habitations, and most of them of
theu" all. The neighborhood feels sensibly the loss of many
deserving citizens, and though deceased, cannot but be highly
indebted to them for their spirit and bravery in their exertions
and manly opj^osition to the merciless enemies of our country
in their last moments.

SEPTEinjEE 6. — In the Gazette of to-day, is the following
letter from a " Carolina Exile," to the printer, on the late ex-
ecution of Colonel Hayne :— " Sir : So great is ^^ E>cecution of
my indignation, on being assured that the haughty coionei iiayne.
and bloodthirsty commandant of Charleston, Lieutenant-Col-
onel ISTisbet Balfour, has executed, with every mark of ignom-
iny and disgrace, my amiable and truly worthy countryman,
Colonel Isaac Iiayne, of South Carolina, I cannot resist the
impulse I feel to address through your paper, the public and
my fellow-citizens on the subject, though totally unaccustomed
to appear in print.

" How long, sir, are we to suffer the rights of humanity to
be trampled upon by this upstart, arrogant Briton ? '' How

' Kew York Journal, Sept. 24 : — The following savage action, committed by
the troops who subdued Fort Griswold on Groton Hill, ought to be recorded to
their eternal infamy :

Soon after the surrender of the fort, they loaded a wagon with the wounded
Americans, by order of their officers, and set the wagon off from the top of the
hill, which is long and very steep ; the wagon went a considerable distance with
great force, till it was suddenly stopped by a tree ; the shock was so great to those
faint and bleeding men, that part of them died instantly. The officers ordered
their men to fire on the wagon while it was running.

= This redoubted Lieutenant-Colonel Balfour is the sou of Balfour the auc-
tioneer and bookseller at Edinburgh. The father is employed almost daily in
knocking off eighteen-penny lots of old books and pamphlets in sweet Edinburgh,
whilst the son, forgetful of the ancestors he sprung from, assumes more state and
consequence than the first peer of the British realm.
Vol. II.— 31

482 DIARY OF THE EEVOLUTION. [1781.

long -will American pusillanimity (for such I must call it) suiier
unavenged the .best blood of her sons to be wantoidy spilled
by the inhuman butchers that are now ravaging our fertile
country ? "When, sir, shall we see a proper attention to the
rights of human nature, and a regard to the many, supersede,
as it ever ought, the particular interests of a few ? How often
are we to hear our insolent invaders declare that we dare not
retaliate, and suffer them to misconstrue American mercy
and generosity into an abject fear of consequences? Li my
opinion, a longer perseverance in the mild and merciful line,
Congress, their generals and other officers, seem to have
adopted, will be highly criminal, and amount to something very
like betraying the trust reposed in them by the people. All
rants and orders of men must be fully convinced by this time,
that nothing but a most exemplary retaliation can check the
insolence of our enemies, and show the commandant of Charles-
ton and every British officer, that we are determined to punish
every future breach of the laws of nations and of war.

" For your information, and that of the public at large, I beg
leave to add that Colonel Hayne was one of those virtuous
patriots who refused the British protection till reduced to the
last extremity,' and then only accepted it on special terms of
never being obliged to turn out to oppose his friends and coun-
trymen in arms. As soon as he was called on, contrary to his
agreement, to draw his sword against the friends of his bosom,
his relations and dearest connections, he thought himself justi-
fied in vacating, on his part, the contract which the British had
broken on theirs. He flew to arms and accepted of a com-
mission either from our American general or the governor of

' Colonel Hayne was not taken in Charleston ; but after the fall of that garri-
son, when the small-pox became so very fatal in his neighborhood as to threaten
the total destruction of his family, he went to Charleston in hopes of getting a
parole for the country, and to be enabled to get his wife and children inoculated by
a surgeon ; but notwithstanding every exertion by himself and friends, the inexor-
able commandant gave him no alternative but protection or a prisonship. The
impending distress of his family prevailed, in a heart replete with fine feelings,
and he took protection, after many days' debate, on special conditions, but too
late to effect the purposes he intended, as his family had taken the infection, whereby
he lost his wife and two or three children.

I

IfSl.] COLONEL ISAAC IIATNE. 483

South Carolina. Being aftei-wards made prisoner in a skir-
mish with the Britisli horse, it is said he ■was not even tried
by a conrt-martial, hut thougli an officer of the rank of colonel,
he has been hanged like a common felon, after being led,
bound Avith his hands behind him, through the principal streets
of Charleston, as a spectacle for Tories, protection traitors, and
the vile rabble of the Bi'itish army to scoff at.

" Could my weak pen do justice to your character, my dear
departed countryman, how pleasing would the task be ! "With
what satisfaction would I show to the world those virtues for
which you were, so highly eminent ! With what rapture
would I paint you in the amiable lights of a tender husband,
an affectionate father, kind master, sincere and benevolent
friend, and honest patriot ! But I am unequal to the task.
SuiSce it to say, that you are entombed in the breast of every
virtuoiis Carolinian, and that your coimtry will one day re-
joice in an opportunity of erecting a more permanent monu-
ment to your memory.

" When the British major Andre suffered the just fate of a
spy, all pens were ready to heighten his character, and even
that of a distinguished American soldier was devoted to em-
blazon him, attributing- to him virtues as his own that existed
nowliere but in the sympathetic and generous breast of the
AVi'iter. How great disservice the author of that panegyric
on that officer has done to his country, and the cause of liberty,
he does not know. I am indeed sure he could not have in-
tended any by praising an imfortunate enemy whom he thought
virtuous. One fact, however, Mr. Printer, I aver and can
fully prove : that when the intelligence of Andre's execution
was brought to St. Augustine, the unhappy defenceless exiles
there had well-nigli fallen victims to the rage of an inflamed
soldiery, encouraged and set on by the most brutal officers
that ever disgraced any service. It is to that ill-timed praise
of a man taken earning money in a way the most dishonorable
and disgraceful to a soldier and a man of virtue, (if he really
were such,) that I attribute the cruel execution of my worthy
countryman.

" The high encomiums passed by American writers on a

484 DIAET OF THE EEVOLrTION. [1781.

British spy, have been made use of to justify a cliarge of want
of humanity in our excellent commander-iii-cliief, and the court
of officers that condemned him ; and the author of these lines
has more than once heard British officers declare that the very
first opportunity would ho catched at, to put to death some
distinguished character among the Americans. To this vin-
dictive spirit Colonel Ilayne has fallen a sacrifice, though in
no way circi;mstanced like Aijdre ?

" If the unprincipled robber of a public library,' the cring-
ing insidious sycophant" and base spy could call forth so many
pens to celebrate him for supposed virtues, how much more
ought to be said of the brilliant virtue and unsullied character
of a Hayne, our own coimtryman ?

" I trust, Mr. Printer, that a severe retaliation for this
murder will take place by order from Congress, not on protec-
tion men and such insignificant miscreants, (to destroy these
would please Colonel Balfour and his peculating herd of police ;)
but on British officers of rank. I wish to see one of equal rank
hanged whenever in our power. I expect shortly to be en-
abled to take the field with the southern army, and am ready
to submit to my fate, should it be my misfortune to fall imder
the power of British butchers. No apprehension of conse-
quences, however, will prevent my avenging with my own
hand, (should an opportunity oifer,) the blood of my illustri-
ous and unhappy countryman. I am mistaken and do not

' The library of the University of Philadelphia received as a present from the
Academy of Sciences in France, by the hands of Doctor Franklin, a complete copy
of that most invaluable work called L'Encyclop6die, which the virtuous and gal-
lant Major Andre stole, and carried off with him. This fact is too well known to
need a mention of the names of the witnesses ; if necessary, however, they can be
produced.

' Major Andre had the address to insinuate himself so much into the favor of his
commandor-in-chief, that he was said to have gained an absolute ascendency over
that officer. The consequence was that he disposed of all offices and favors,
and drove out of Sir Henry CUnton's family all his former friends and favorites,
who possessed too much independency of soul to accept any thing through the
medium of Mr. Andre, and were too honest to stoop to use those means by which
this pattern of viriue succeeded. This is by no means a private anecdote, but was
the pubhc conversation of officers of various ranks in Charleston, after the sur-
render of that place.

1781.] FEENCH TROOPS IN VIEGmiA. 485

know the feelings of my fellow-citizens, if sueli will not be tlie
determination of every Lonest Caroliiiiun." '

SEPTEinjEE 7. — A coEEESPONDENT now in tlio camp of La-
fayette's army in Virginia, says :— " Let me make yovi ac-
quainted with Major-General the Marqiiis de St. prench Troops in
Simon, and the French army ; yon have seen the Virginia,
Eritish troops and the troops of other nations, but you have
not seen troops so universally well-made, so robust, or of
such an appearance, as those General St. Simon has brought
to our assistance. These are all under the command of our
general. They now encamp nearlj^ on the ground the British
occupied before they evacuated Jamestown. I do not pretend
to know the secrets of our commander, or I would tell you
what is to be done ; I pretend, however, to see a great general
in the Marquis de St. Simon, an affectionate politeness in his
officers towards ours, and a general impatience in the French
army to complete the Gordian knot, in which our second
Fabius Fayette has been entangling his lordship ; some of its
cords already press him, and, I believe, if there were hopes
of succeeding, he woidd attempt to cut it. But notwithstand-
ing his lordship is, perhaps, the first officer in the British ser-
vice, yet he may not be in possession of the swoixl of Alcides.

" The light infantry are advanced to "Williamsburgh ; the
Pennsylvanians lay near us, and it is the talk of the camp
that the French troops will take their position to-morrow in
its vicinity. Tlie French ships lay in James Eiver, to pre-
vent a retreat in York Hiver, and at the capes. You are a
soldier as well as a philosopher, and will experience our feel-
ings on the present occasion. "We have a brave army to con-
tend against, furnished in provisions, with all the necessaries
for a gallant resistance, and in number fully sufficient for the
defence of their post ; but we shall do very well, for to the com-
mon motives of our profession will be joined an emulation
arising from the fighting by the side of our allies.

" The British are intrenching at York with great industry.

' Pennsylvania Packet, September 6.

486 DIAET OF THE EETOLTJTION. [1781.

Every thing is landed from their shipping, and dispositions
made for their destruction. A propos, yesterday evening a
patrol of nine or ten militia fell in with a patrol of Colonel
Tarleton's legion, of an equal number, and commanded by a
lieutenant, the whole of which the' militia captured ; it is a
trifle, but it is a trifle that was very prettily done." '

September 9. — General Greene has added another to the
number of rebel victories. Yesterday mornmg at four o'clock.

Battle of having been joined by the forces under General
Etttuw Springs. Mariou, he made the following disposition of his
army, and marched from the encampment at Burdell's planta-
tion, to attack the British at Eutaw Springs. His front line
was composed of four small battalions of militia, two of North
and two of South Carolinians ; one of the latter was under the
immediate command of General Marion, and was posted on
the right, who also commanded the front line ; the two North
Carolina battalions, rmder the command of Colonel Malmady,
were posted in the centre, and the other South Carolina batta-
lion, under the command of General Pickens, was posted on
the left. Tlie second lino consisted of three small brigades of
Contmental troops, one from North Carolina, one from Vir-
ginia, and one from Maryland. Tlic North Carolinians were
formed into three battalions, under command of Lieutenant-
Colonel Ash, Majors Armstrong and Blount, the whole com-
manded by General Svmmer, and were posted on the right. Tlie
Virginians consisted of two battalions, commanded by Major
Snead and Captain Edmonds, and the whole by Lieutenant-
Colonel Campbell, and were posted in the centre. The Mary-
landers also consisted of two battalions, commanded by Lieu-
tenant-Colonel Howard and Major Hardman, and the brigade
by Colonel Williams, deputy adjutant-general to the army, and
were posted upon the left. Lieutenant-Colonel Lee, with his
legion, covered the right flank, and Lieutenant-Colonel Hen-
derson, with the State troops, commanded by Lieutenant-Col-
onels Hampton, Middleton, and Polk, the left. Lieutenant-

^ Pennsylvania Packet, September IS.

1Y81.] BATTLE OF EUTAW SPKINGS. 487

Colonel TVasliington, ^vitll his horse, and the Delaware troops
tuider Captain Kirkwood, formed a corps de reserve. Two
three-pounders, under Lieutenant Gaines, advanced with the
front line, and two sixes under Captain Brown with the second.
The legion and State troops formed the advance, and were to
retire upon the flanks upon the British forming.

In this order the Americans moved on to the attack. The
legion and State troops fell in with a jiarty of British horse
and foot, about four miles from their camp, who, mistaking the
Americans for a party of militia, charged thejn briskly, but
were soon convinced of their mistake by the reception they
met with. Tlie infantry of the State troops kept up a heavy
fire, and the legion in front, under Captain Kudolph, charged
them with fixed bayonets, when they fled on all sides, leaving
four or five dead on the ground, and several more wounded.
As this was supposed to be the advance of the British army,
the front line of the Americans was ordered to form and move
on briskly in line, the legion and State troops to take their
position upon the flanks. All the country is covered with tim-
ber, from the place where the action began to the Eutaw
Springs. Tlie flring began again between two and three miles
from the British camp. The militia were ordered to keep ad-
vancing as they fired. The British advanced parties were
soon driven in, and a most tremendous fire began on both
sides, from right to left, Avhen the legion and State troops were
closely engaged. General Maiion, Colonel Malmady, and
General Pickens, conducted the troops with great gallantry
and good conduct, and the militia fought with a degree of
spirit and firmness that reflects the highest honor on that class
of soldiers. But the enemy's fire being gi-eatly superior to the
Americans', and continuing to advance, the militia began to
give ground. The North Carolina brigade, imder General
Sumner, was then ordered up to their support. Tliese were all
new levies, and had been under discipline little more than a
month ; notwithstanding which, they fought with a degree of
obstinacy that would do honor to the best of veterans, and it
was hard to tell which to admire most, the gallantry of the
officers, or the bravery of the troops. Tliey kept up a heavy

4SS DIAKT OF THE REVOLUTION. [1781.

and well-directed fire, and tlie enemy returned it witli equal
spirit, for they really fought worthy of a better cause, and
great execution was done on both sides. In this stage of the
action, the Virginians, under Lieutenant-Colonel Cani23bell, and
the Maryland ti-oops under Colonel "Williams, were led on to a
brisk charge with trailed arms, through a heavy cannonade
and a shower of musket balls. Nothing could exceed the
gallantry and firmness of both ofiicers and soldiers upon this
occasion ; they preserved their order, and pushed on with such
unshaken resolution, that they bore all down before them.
The British were routed in all quarters. Lieutenant-Colonel
Lee had, with great address, gallantry, and good conduct, turn-
ed their left flank, and was charging them in rear at the same
time the Yirginians and Maryland troops were charging them
in front. A most valuable ofiicer, Lieutenant-Colonel Hender-
son, was wounded early in the action, and Lieutenant-Colonel
Hampton, who commanded the State cavalry, aud who, fortu-
nately, succeeded Lieutenant-Colonel Henderson in the com-
mand, charged a party of the enemy, aud took upwards of one
hundred prisoners.

Lieutenant-Colonel Washington brought vip the corps de
reserve upon the left, where the British seemed disjjosed to
make further resistance, and charged them so briskly with the
cavalry and Captain Kirkwood's infantry, as gave them no time
to rally or form. Lieutenant-Colonels Polk and Middleton,
who commanded the State infantry, were no less conspicuous
for their good conduct than their intrepidity ; and the troops
under their command gave specimens of what may be expected
from men naturally brave, when improved by proper discipline.
Captain-Lieutenant Gaines, who commanded the three-pounders
with the front line, did great execution till his pieces were dis-
mounted.

The Americans kept close at the enemy's heels after they
broke, until they got into their camp, and a great number of
prisoners were continually falling into their hands, while some
hundi-eds of the fugitives ran off" towards Charleston. But a
party threw themselves into a three-story brick house which
stands near the Spring, others took post in a picketed garden,

1781.] BATTLE OF EUTAW SPRINGS. 489

and in the impenetrable shrubs, and the rear also behig secured
by the Springs and deep hollow-ways, the British renewed the
action.

Every exertion was made to dislodge them. Lieutenant-
Colonel Washington made most astonishing efforts to get
through the thicket to charge them in the rear, but found it
impracticable, had his horse shot vmder him, and was wound-
ed and taken prisoner.

Four six-pounders were ordered up before the house, two
of the Americans' and two of the enemy's which they had
abandoned, and they were pushed on so much under the com-
mand of the fire from the house, and the party in the thickets,
as rendered it impracticable to bring them off again when the
troops were ordered to retire. Never were pieces better
served ; most of the men and officers were either killed or
wounded.

"Washington failing in his charge upon the left, and the
legion baffled in an attempt upon the right, finding the infantry
galled by the fire of the British, and the ammunition mostly
consumed, though officers and men continued to exhibit un-
common acts of heroism. General Greene thought proper to
retire out of the fire of the house, and draw up the troops at a
little distance from the woods, not thinking it advisable to push
his advantages further, being persuaded the enemy could not
hold the post many hours, and that his chance to attack
them on the retreat was better than a second attempt to dis-
lodge them, which, if he succeeded, must be attended with
considerable loss.

After collecting all the wounded, except such as were
under the command of the fire of the house, the Americans re-
tired to the ground from which they marched in the morning,
there being no water nearer, and the troops ready to faint with
the heat and want of refreshment, the action having continued
near four hoiirs. A strong picket was left on the field of ac-
tion, and early this morning, General Greene detached Gen-
eral Marion and Lieutenant-Colonel Lee, with the legion horse
between Eutaw and Charleston, to prevent any reinforcements
from coming to the relief of the British, to retard theii- march

490 DIARY OF THE KEVOLUTIOX. [1781.

sliould tliey attempt to retire, and give time for tlie army to
fall upon their rear, and put a finisliing stroke to the work.
The Americans left two pieces of artillery in the hands of the
enemy, and brought off one of theirs.'

General Greene thmks himself principally indebted for this
victory to the free use of the bayonet made by the Virginians
and Marylanders, the infantry of the legion, and Captain Kirk-
wood's light infantry ; and though few armies ever exliibited
equal bravery with the Americans in general, yet the conduct
and intrepidity of these corps Avere peculiarly conspicuous.
Lieutenant-Colonel Campbell fell as he was leading his troops
to the charge, and though he fell with distinguished mai l^s of
honor, yet his loss is much to be regretted. He was the great
soldier and the firm patriot.''

Tlie American loss in officers is considerably more from
their value than their number, for never did either men or
ofiicers offer their blood more willingly in the service of their
country. " I cannot helj) acknowledging my obligations to
Colonel "Williams," says General Greene, " for his gi-eat ac-
tivity on this and many other occasions, in forming the army,
and for his imconimon intrepidity in leading on the Maryland

' On tho evening of the day following the battle, the British retired, leaving
upwards of seventy of their wounded behind them, and not less than a thousand
stand of arms that were picked up on the field, and found brol;en and concealed
in the Eutaw Springs. They stove between twenty and thirty puncheons of rum,
and destroyed a great variety of other stores whicli they had not carriages to
carry off. General Greene pursued them the moment he got intelligence of their
retiring. At Martin's tavern they formed a junction with Major M'Arthur, (Gen-
eral Marion and I.ieutenant-Colonel Lee not having a force sufficient to prevent
it,) but on Greene's approach they retired to the neighborhood of Charleston. The
Americans have taken five hundred prisoners, including the wounded the enemy
left behind ; and they cannot have suffered less than six hundred more in killed
and wounded. The fugitives that fled from the field of battle spread such an
alarm that the enemy burnt their stores at Dorchester, and abandoned the post at
Fair Lawn, and a great number of negroes and others were employed in felling
trees across the road for some miles without the gates of Charleston. Nothing
but the brick house, and the peculiar strength of the position at Eutaw, saved the
remains of the British army from being all made prisoners.

^ After his fall he inquired who gave way, and being informed the British
are fleeing in all quarters, he added, " I die contented," and immediately ex-
pired.— Gordon, iv. 171.

1781.] BATTLE OF EUTAW SPRINGS. 401

troops to tlie charge, wliicli exceeded any thing I ever saw.
I also feel myself greatly indebted to Captains Pierce and Pen-
dleton, Major Hyrne, and Captain Shnbrick, my aide-de-camp,
for their activity and good conduct throughout the whole of
the action." '

' Letter from General Greene to the President of Congress, in the New Jersey
Gazette, October 24; and Carver, 140. The following is a British account of
this battle : — "The rebel army having been augmented by recruits from their con-
tinental battalions and militia, drawn from the disaffected parts of Korth and
South Carolina, to upwards of four thousand men. General Greene was induced
to act ofi'cnsivcly. The reports he had of the weak state of our army rendered
him confident of success.

" Colonel Stewart was at the Eutaws, near Nelson's ferry, when Greene's army
crossed the Congaree, but the latter's great superiority in cavalry and numbers of
the militia being mounted, gave liim every advantage of concealing his approach.
Early on Saturday morning a scouting party from the several regiments in camp
was sent out, and which it was supposed would be covered by a very considerable
party of cavalry and infantry ordered out tliat morning, which fell in with the
rebel army on its march, about seven o'clocli. The firing that then ensued gave
the first information of the enemy's advancing.

" Our line was immediately formed, and a little after eight o'clock the whole
rebel army was opposed to it.

" The action immediately commenced with a heavy discharge of field-pieces and
musketry on both sides. The rebel cavalry came on with such impetuosity as to
make a considerable impression ; at one time they had got into our encampment)
but being vigorously charged were soon repulsed and driven into the woods.
After a severe conflict, which lasted above an hour, the enemy gave way in every
quarter, and were obliged to relinquish the field, on which they left near three hun-
dred of their dead ; their wounded, amounting to three times that number, were
chiefly carried off. Two brass six-pounders were taken, and some prisoners,
among whom is Colonel Washington, slightly wounded. His corps of light horse
is nearly anniliilated. We learn that almost every otEeer in it is either killed or
wounded. Colonel Campbell of the mountaineers, and Captain Devant, who con-
spicuously distinguished himself in leading the forlorn hope at the siege of Ninety-
six, were killed ; Colonel Henderson is dangerously wounded. The number of their
ofiicers of less note killed and wounded, is very considerable, especially of artillery.

" The loss sustained by us is chiefly the prisoners taken in the scouting party.
Two oSicers and sixty priviites were killed ; thirteen officers and two hundred and
eighty privates wounded — fifty of the latter, being the worst cases and impracticable
to remove, were left at the Eutaws ; one three-pounder fell into the hands of the
enemy, by the falhng back of our line at the commencement of the action.

"Our army remained two days on the field of battle, the numerous wounded
incapacitating it from making a forward movement. General Greene requested a
cessatlsa Oi arms, which was refused by Colonel Stewart.

" The army, on the eleventh, fell back to Monk's Corner, from whence the

492 DIART OF THE EEVOLXJTION. [1781.

The battle of Eutaw, which was fought yesterday, happened

upon the same spot of ground on which, according to the tra-

Battie Field of <iition of the coiuitry, a memorable battle was

Eutaw. fought about a century ago, between a i^arty of
speculating Europeans and the natives of the soil. In the
first we are told six hundred men fell, and we find an Lidiau
mound erected as a monument to peiiJetuate their glory. In
the second, double that number were killed and wounded, but
whether this Christian nation will give such an honorable tes-
timony of the great worth of those who now sleep in the bed
of honor, is a matter not to be expected. The American vic-
tory was complete, though the fate of the day mingled sorrows
in the triumjDh.

General Greene, who is one of the best and bravest soldiers
himself, is highly satisfied with the behavior of the troops in
general, but particularly with the Maryland brigade ; he saw
them make a charge with trailed arms through the hottest of
the enemy's fire, and was so delighted with their firmness and
vivacity, that he rode up to one of their officers, and compli-
mented them on the field. He has also done it in general
orders, and made the Virginians a compliment in the same
style. They behaved with equal courage.

If any former misconduct or accident in war has left a stain
iipon the Maryland troops, their exemplary conduct upon this
occasion should obliterate it forever. Around the monument
which is mentioned above, four of the oflicers and many other
brave soldiers fell. Let them rest in that ancient bed of honor ;
may their virtues only be remembered, and their spirits enjoy
eternal glory ! '

Septesibee 10. — Last night, a fit time for the sons of Luci-
fer to perpetrate the deeds of darkness, one or more volimteers

wounded being sent to town, and the necessary refreshments and supplies re-
ceived, it is now advancing in quest of tlie enemy, who, in consequence of so gal-
lant and complete a repulse have retreated with precipitation." — From a Charleston
Paper ; see Pennsylvania Packet, January 5, 1V82.

' Extract of a letter dated camp at Trout Springs, September 12, in the New-
Jersey Journal, October 31.

•1Y81.]

VANDALISlVt AT pnn.ADELrniA.

in the service of hell, broke into the State House in Phila-
delphia, and totally defaced the picture of his Excellency Gen-
eral "Washington, and a curious engraving of the vandalism at
moniunent of the patriotic General Montgomery, Pii"'"i<:ipw»-
done in France in the most elegant manner. Every generous
bosom must swell with indignation at such atrocioiis proceed-
ings. It is a matter of grief and soiTOwful reflection that any
of the human race can be so abandoned, as to offer siich an
insult to men who are and have been an honor to human na-
ture, who ventiire and have ventured their lives for the liber-
ties of their fellow-men. A being who carries such malice in
his breast must be miserable beyond conception. We need
wish him no other pimishment than his own feelings.

" The motions of his spirit are black as night,
And his affections darli as Erebus." '

SEPTEinsEE 16. — ^The rebels are evidently at their last gasp.
TJnable to vanquish the troops of Britain on equal ground,
they have all taken to writing, and every rebel p]„i„ t^„ji, ^^
print is now sprouting rhymes and rhodomontades c°rn^'''"is-
against the ablest and best of generals. Li a late Jersey j^rint,

' Bailey's Freeman's Journal, (Philadelphia,) September 12 ; Eivington repub-
lished this account on the 22d September with the following remarks: — "We
think the defacing of a picture, though it were of a man stained with the crimes of
murder and rebelHon, is a poor expression of scorn or resentment, which no man
of a generous mind can justify. What then shall we say ? What must be thought
by the lovers of humanity and of the liberal arts, when it is remembered, that in
the commencement of the American rebellion an elegant equestrian statue of our
most gracious sovereign was openly profaned by the sacrilegious hands of traitorsi
set on by pubUc orders of seditious leaders, who called themselves gentlemen ;
who had often in the most solemn manner appealed to heaven as a witness of their
immaculate loyalty to that amiable prince, whom now they insult in pamphlets and
printed speeches, with the title of ' Roy.i! Brute ; ' that after shamefully mutilat-
ing the highest ornament of New York, they carried it about in scandalous pro-
cession, treating a noble image of the sacred Mnjosty of Britain with indignity
most atrocious, most impious, and diabolical. Remember this, ye seditious Up-
starts, and for shame be silent on the subject of indignities offered to the memory
of a deserter, and to the character of one on whose guiUy head the blood of Andre
and of a train of loyal martyrs call aloud for vengeance, and whose name as a traitor
is consigned to infamy by the indignant voice of truth and loyalty."

494 DIAKT OF THE EETOLTJTION. [1781.

Cornwallis was devoured intellectually, breeches and all, by-
one of the runaway chiefs of South Carolina ; and by a paper
just brought into JSTew York, we see that a mad Yankee who
flatters his vanity with the sobriquet of Plain Textth, has been
venting himself on the same fruitful subject.' His remarks
are addressed to " Eai'l Cornwallis, or the British Cerberus,"
and are as follows : —

" Know, 0 man, thou must die.

" My Lord : — Your military manoeuvres in the Southern
States have been carried on with such a degree of voracious-
ness, that it is impossible to do justice to your abilities in re-
fining upon the liorrors of war. The inhabitants of the Tarta-
rean dominions are at last eclipsed in hellish machination, by
you and yoiu- associates. Hark ! do not the vassals of great
Pluto rejoice at having some respite from business, by the
superiority of your talents in barbarity. But take care what
you do ; your reign in this world is almost at an end ; and
though the prince of darkness makes use of you as a cat's paw
on earth, in the same manner as you employ the deluded Refu-
gees, be assured such a haughty sfiirit will not allow of an
equal in his gloomy territories, no more than your lordship
could brook the thoughts of the traitor Arnold to partake of
your great exploits in plundering and devastation. Therefore
you may expect his loyal highness will, through envy, confine
you to the lowermost of the infernal regions.

" Dare you to reflect one moment on your transactions for
eighteen months past ? Ruminate on the quantity of blood
wantonly spilt, on those men you hung at Camden and other
places, on the thirteen hanged and strangled with the bow-
string by Brown at Augusta ; on poor Cusack, near Pedee,"
whose wife and four little children, with dishevelled hair, crying
and wringing their hands, in a manner to rend a heart of stone,
threw themselves on their knees before the commander of the
party. Major "Wymms, begging the life of a dear parent and
husband, but all in vain ; the obdurate-hearted wretch clapped

' Smythc's Journal, 212.

' See Gordon's American Revolution, vol. iv., pp. 27-29.

1Y81.] PLAIN TEUTH TO COKNWALLIS. 495

spurs to his horse, and swore he would ride over tlicm if they
did not get out of his way immediately. The hanging of Col-
onel Ilayne is another instance of bloody-mindedness, which
shows Colonel Balfour to be a true modern British officer, and
does credit to the confidence you put in him. You are in part
accountable for all those actions, so shocking to humanity,
committed by officers under your direction. Do not you think
that ample retaliation must take place ? "Will laot you be an-
swerable to that Being who gave you life, for all the innocent
blood that may be shed ?

" Yom' whole manner of carrying on the war, discovers
such an immanly, virulent spirit, that it will be impossible for
time ever to wipe off the dishonor you have brought on your-
self and the British arms. A Nero would stand amazed at
your execrable murders, burning and desolation ? Nay, your
crimes are so heinous, that old Beelzebub himself would blush,
if possible, and be ashamed to commit them ! If your con-
science is not seared and callous to all feeling, do you not at
times conceive there are scorpions gnawing and tearing your
soul to pieces ? Be alarmed ! you know not the moment when
terrible vengeance from heaven may come hailing down upon
your head ! You must die ! tremble at the thought of judg-
ment !

" Can you look upon yourself as a friend to the king your
master. Do you expect to conciliate the affections of men by
such inhuman butcheries and barbarous proceedings ? Will
England obtain a single benefit by destroying Georgetown ?
What advantage has been gained by all your conflagrations
heretofore ? Know that it is in the power of two or three dar-
ing Americans, to lay your metropolis, London, in ashes.
Surely never a set of men so erred in their judgment as the
British ; for had the Americans pointed out a mode for you
to have pursued, they could not so effectually have served tlie
glorious cause in which they are engaged, as your cruelties
have done. And it is a truth beyond contradiction, that
wherever you go, three-fourths of those whom you find friends,
after a little acquaintance, become your most inveterate
enemies. Can you deny any of the above charges, which

496 DIAEY OF THE EEVOLUTIOX. [17S1.

are known by liimdreds to Le stnbljoru facts, and plain
truth f"

Septemeee 26. — ^The unavoidable calamities and distresses
of a civil war, that attend even tbe innocent and inoffensive.
The Sufferings of ^'"^ ^^ great, that, unnecessarily and wantonly to
tho Eefiigees. ^^^ ^Q them, denotes a most malignant and dia-
bolical temper. These reflections are occasioned by a recent
instance (of which tliere have been thousands) of the spirit
reigning among the rebels. To set this in its proper light, it
may be first necessary to give the character, conduct, and
sufferings of the gentleman that has within these few days
been the object of their malevolence, spite, and ill-nature. He
is a refugee, or rather an exile, of the province of Xcw York,
whose character as to integrity and humanity, stands imim-
peached even by the rebels themselves ; but as this led him in
the commencement of the present troubles to be opposed to all
those measures which, in his opinion, had a tendency to bring
on his country's ruin and destruction, he was in consequence
thereof, early (even before the declaration of independence)
closely confined in common gaols and prison ships, and after
keeping him about two years a prisoner, and findhig nothing
to impeach him with but his barely differing with them in
private sentiments, they passed a law, that unless he would
take a most solemn oath that he believed, what he did nor
could not believe, together with an oath of allegiance to the
States, and abjuration of the king and crown of Great Britain,
he should be banished from among them ; and, accordingly,
above three years ago he was banished, leaving behind him
his wife and f\xmily, a good estate, and all the comforts of a
domestic life, which he M-as peculiarly blessed with ; and now
follows tlie instance alluded to, of rebel wantonness, inhu-
manity, and cruelty. Tliis gentleman's lady having in vain
solicited leave for two years past to go to Xew York to see her
husband, and to return, at length obtained a pass from a justice
of the peace, to travel to Elizabethtown in New Jersey, hoping
her husband might be permitted to meet her there. Upon

' Tennsylvaiiia Packet, September 6.

17S1.] PKLN'CE WILLIAM IIENET. 497

notice of this lie obtained a flag for that pnrpose, but when he
arrived tliere, he was peremptorily refused admittance on
shore, and with difiicultj his wife got leave to go into the little
flag boat. No sooner was she on board, while yet they were
bathing each other's cheeks with tears that gushed out on the
occasion, a mandate was sent on board ordering the flag to
return immediately, and they were instantly torn from their
tender embraces.

Tliat such a course is as contrary to the conduct of the
loyalists, as it is contrary to the dictates of humanity, the
citizens of New York may declare, who daily see the connec-
tions of the most atrocious rebels admitted to town to visit
their friends, and who traverse the streets week after week..
Nay, the very rebels themselves that are taken in arms, seem
to have little or no restraint put on them. Above twenty of
these (being exchanged) were put on board this gentleman's
flag, some of whom he had seen ranging through the town.'

Septemeee 27. — ^The American army and their allies, near
Williamsburg, in Virginia, formed the line of battle to-day.
To-morrow morning they expect to march to ag.,„^„f^„,^t„,„_
position near York, to commence a siege. They ^''- ™"°"='"='^'i.
make a brilliant appearance as to numbers, and are fifteen
thousand strong, not including the Virginia militia. General
Wayne was wounded in the thigh the 2d instant, by a senti-
nel, who conceived him to be an enemy, but has since re-
covered.

We congratulate our friends upon the prospect of reducing
his lordship, and restoring peace and liberty to our country.'

Septem3?ee 29. — Last Wednesday afternoon his royal high-
ness. Prince William Heniy, an-ived at New York, accom-
panied by the honorable Admiral Digby ; he was Prince Wiiiiam
received at landing by his Excellency the com- New Tort
mander-in-chief, accompanied by the governor, the admiral, gen-

' Rivington's Gazette, September 26.

'^ Extract of a letter from camp, near AVilliamsburgh ; in the New York Gazette,
October 22.

Vol. II.— 32

498 DIAKY OF THE EEVOLUTION. [1781.

erals, and other great officers of the crown, conducted to Com-
modore Affleck's, where his royal highness dined, and in the
evening retired to apartments provided for his accommodation
in Wall street.

Yesterday the militia and independent companies appeared
nnder arms, and his royal highness was saluted by them en
passant, to the hoiise of his Excellency Lieutenant-General
Kohertson, where an elegant dinner was provided for him. "

It is impossible to express the satisfaction felt (by persons
of all ranks) from the ease, affability, and condescension shown
by this most pleasing, manly youth, when he appears abroad
amongst the happy and approved loyal subjects of the good
and gracious king, our best and firmest friend, the majesty of
England, his royal higlmess' sincerely beloved father.

Soon after his arrival, the governor, in the name of himself,
his Majesty's council, and the inhabitants, presented him with
the following address : — " May it please your royal highness
to permit me, with the members of his Majesty's coraicil, to
hail your auspicious arrival on the American shore ; at the
same time suffer me to express the congratulations which all
the inhabitants, by their chief magistrate, have commissioned
me to convey to your royal higlmess.

" On the report of your coming, we felt our obligation to
our gracious king for this new and signal proof of his regard.
Your royal highness' appearance augments our gratitude by
improving our idea- of the extent of his goodness. Your pres-
ence animates every loyal breast. Tlie glow in our own per-
suades us you are formed to win every heart. A rebellion that
grew upon prejudice, should sink at the- approach of so faii;
a representation of the royal virtues. But if a misled faction,
not to be vancpiished b}' goodness, ]iersists in the war, every
man of spirit will be proud to fight in a cause for which you
expose your life.

" May your royal higlmess bring an accession of glory to
that distinguished family from which you are descended, and
who, as patrons of liberty, and the Protestant religion, have
spread blessings amongst nations."

To which liis royal highness was pleased to make the fol-

MAP

of

NewYork

4:98 DIARY OF THE EETOLUTION. [1781.

erals, and other great officers of the crown, conducted to Com-
modore Affleck's, where his rojal liighuess dined, and in the
evening retired to apartments provided for his accommodation
in "Wall street.

Yesterday the militia and independent companies appeared
under arms, and his royal highness was sainted by them en
passant, to the house of his Excellency Lieutenant-General
Eobertson, where an elegant dinner was provided for him.

It is impossible to express the satisfaction felt (by persons
of all ranks) from the ease, affability, and condescension shown
by this most pleasing, manly youth, when he appears abroad
amongst the happy and approved loyal subjects of the good
and gracious king, our best and firmest friend, the majesty of
England, his royal highness' sincerely beloved father.

Soon after his amval, the governor, in the name of himself,
his Majesty's council, and the inhabitants, presented him with
the following address : — " May it please your royal highness
to permit me, with the members of his Majesty's comicil, to
hail your auspicious arrival on the American shore ; at the
same time suffer me to express the congratiUations which all
the inhabitants, by their chief magistrate, have commissioned
me to convey to your royal highness.

" On the report of your coming, we felt our obligation to
our gracious king for this new and signal proof of his regard.
Your royal highness' appearance augments oiir gratitude by
improving our idea- of the extent of his goodness. Your jires-
ence animates every loyal breast. Tlie glow in our own per-
suades us you are formed to win every heart. A rebellion that
grew upon prejudice, should sink at the- approach of so faii;
a representation of the royal virtues. But if a misled faction,
not to be vanquished by goodness, persists in the war, every
man of spirit will be proud to fight in a cause for which you
expose your life.

" May your royal highness bring an accession of glory to
that distinguished family from which yon are descended, and
who, as patrons of liberty, and the Protestant religion, have
spread blessings amongst nations."

To which his royal highness was pleased to make the fol-

R I ^ J H

1781.] WILLIAM HENEY GUELPH. 499

lowing answer : — " Gentlemen : I beg yon will receive my
best tlianks for yonr attention to me, and congratulations on
my arrival in this country, which I shall certainly take the
first opportunity of making known to his Majesty. I desire
you will accept of my best wishes for the prosperity of Ameri-
ca in general, and this province in particular." '

A GOLDEN calf was once the instrument of reducing the
Israelites from their true interests and duty. Tliey gave uj)
that liberty wherewith God had made them free ; they gave
up their jaroperty, ear-rings of gold, to make the calf, and then
fell down and worshipped him, crying out : Theseare thy Gods
0 Israel ! And they ran into all this folly and wickedness
because the Egyptians, their late cruel masters, worshipped a
great beast called Aj^is, a bull.

Tlie governor of the garrison of the city of New York,
seems to think that the Americans will be led into the same
extravagance ; that we already long for the onions ^^^ offspring of
and fleshpots of our former task-masters and the Eoyai Brute,
bloody persecutors ; that we are prepared to return to our an-
cient idolatry, and that above all things in the wide world, we
are ready to worship the offsprings of the royal Brute of
Britain. He is mistaken, after this long and bloody contest
for freedom and independence, which is now drawing to so
happy a conclusion. After we have waded through seas of
blood, in search of liberty, we are not to be led away from the
glorious object by the idle pageantry of a son of a king, espe-
cially of such a king as degrades human nature beneath the
rank of the adored bull of Egypt. Let slaves adore tyrants
and the sons of tyrants ; the Americans are free. It is our
boast that we have no king, and if we should be again recon-
ciled to royal government, which is hardly possible, we should
even then, it is to be hoped, have virtue enough remaining to
refuse any kind of subjection to the remotest lineage of oui-
late abhorred tjTant. Tlie boy "William Henry Guelph, lately
arrived at New York, will perhaps soon be in our power. In

' Rivington'a Gazette, September 29.

500 DIAEY OF THE EEYOLUTION. [1781.

that event we sliall not visit the sins of the father on the child,
but send him home to his mother. It would not be quite so
safe for his father to come amongst us. The blood he has so
wantonly spilt, and all the cruelties he lias used towards the
people of this country, would very justly be remembered
against him."

■ Pennsjlvania Packet, October 6.

CHAPTER XI.

October 1. — A gentleman -who left the American army in
Yirgiiiia, on tlie afternoon of the 30th of September, gives the
following accoimt of transactions in that qnarter : Affairs in
— " On Friday, September 28th, the whole army vi--sinia.
marched from Williamsburg to within one mile of the enemy's
works at York, and formed the first line of circnmvallation
without any loss. On the 29th the Americans had a few skir-
mishes with the enemy, but little damage done on either
side. In the night the British evacuated Pigeon Quarter, and
three other redoubts, which are so high as to be able to com-
mand the town. These were taken possession of on Sunday
morning at sunrise, under a heavy cannonade from Yorktown.
The enemy next fled from a stockade, when the French grena-
diers had advanced within fifteen yards of it, and retreated
under cover of their shipping with the loss of ten taken prison-
ers. It was expected our troops would break ground on the
1st instant. Cornwallis's forces in York are supposed to be
six thousand troops, incliiding refugees, besides one thousand
armed negroes. He has possession of the river and Gloucester,
strongly fortified and garrisoned by about one thoi;sand men.
Tliese are hemmed in by General Weedon with fifteen hun-
dred men, the Dnke de Lauzun with his legion, and two thou-
sand mariners from the fleet to prevent any escape that way.
One ship of forty-four guns, two frigates, and a twenty-gun
packet lie at Burwell's Landing, in James Eiver ; one of fifty,
one of forty, two frigates and a storeship in the mouth of that
river ; five ships of the line oft' Cape Henry ; thirty-two ships
of tlie line and several frigates are drawn up across the mouth

502 DIAHY OF THE EEYOLUTION. [1781.

of York Eiver, and three ships of considerable force are in
that river below the town, which were to proceed onward with
the first fair wind. General Washington sent in a flag to Lord
Cornwallis, directing him not to destroy his shipping or war-
like stores, as he wonld answer it at his periL The easy cap-
ture of the outposts will greatly accelerate the future opera-
tions of our army. Lieutenant-Colonel John ConoUy was
taken near Torktown, by two militia men, and is paroled to
Hanover in Virginia.'

The late battle at the Eutaw Springs will stand as a monu-
ment of American valor, conduct, and intrepidity, that will
astonish every attentive judicious reader down to

General Greene. ,-, . -^ , /»-rk».

the latest posterity, and show the tyrant or Isritam
the futility of persevering in the American war ; posterity will
scarce find faith sufiicient to credit the glorious achievements
of a Greene ; biit all encomiums upon this great man are dull !
Let his own modest, candid, and fair recital of facts, be his
own panegyric, and may Americans never forget to be as
grateful as their heroes are brave.^

OcTOBEK 3. — EiviNGTON, ill the Hoyal Gazette of to-day,
congratulates the public, and especially the inhabitants of the
New York EecordsP^^^n^e of New York, upon the king's gracious

Eestored. rcstoratiou of those important records, which Gen-
eral Tyron's care and vigilance secured on board of the ship
Duchess of Gordon, in the month of November, 1775. The
general, then governor, was apprised of the wicked design to
seize that inestimable treasure in the Secretary's office, (for
the loss of which no money could compensate,) and to convey
it to New England. And that it was upon the point of being
carried into execution, by a party of the mob, headed by Sears,^
who has since profited so much by his plunders.

General Tiyon caused such of the books to be selected as
put it out of the power of almost every landholder without

Pennsylvania Packet, October 9. '' New Jersey Journal, October 31.

Isaac Sears. — See vol. i., p. 0.

1781.] A CAED TO THE BRITISH. 503

recourse to them, to give evidence iu a com-t of law of tlie title
to his estate ; and these were brought off in strong boxes nnder
locks and seals. Tliey were carried home to England, in 1778,
and lately sent back in one of the king's ships to their ancient
deposit.

The residue, or general mass of papers, are among the rebels,
having been first conveyed by order of the provincial Congress
to Kingston, in Ulster county. Mr. Bayard, the deputy sec-
retary, was with them, and watched over them, till the violence
of the times wrested them from his hands and consigned them
to others above three years ago ; since which, they have been
exposed to a perilous transportation from one place to another
in carts.

It is impossible to say where the mischiefs would have
stopped, had Sears's project succeeded, or to describe the wild
confusion in property, consequent upon the access of designing
villains to these records, in which all the inhabitants of this
colony may find the chief links in chain of titles to their lands.
It must, therefore, be grateful to people of all ranks and classes,
to know that these records are safe, and that due care will be
taken to prevent their ever falling into the hands of the usurp-
ers, who have already involved this country in so much
misery.

October 6. — A caed : — ^The Monsieurs, Mynheers, Yankees
and Dons, present their compliments to the My Lords, and
being desirous of entertaining them in a manner ^ ^^^^ ^^ ^^^ ^^^^_
suitable to their taste, are happy in making them isii "* YorktowD.
the following invitations : — Monsieur has the honor to invite
them to a grand concert on the water, when the power of music
will be shown in a manner never heard of since the days of
Timotheus and Alexander. Tliey hope it will be such as to
make the My Lords acknowledge his superiority in musical com-
position and performance.

Yankee intends to present them with a grand firework, to
be performed at London, or some other great seaport town in
Great Britain or Ireland, but much superior to those which the
My Lords pretended to exhibit at Norfolk, Kingston, New Lon-

601 DIAEY OF THE EEVOLUTION. [1781.

don, &c. For the sake of those wlio are in this country and
cannot transport themselves over to England, they will shortly
be shown a new Bear Trap, wherein five thousand of those ob-
noxious animals are to be caught at once. This entertainment
was exhibited to them about four years ago, and they were
pleased to appear highly satisfied with it. The present one
is on a new plan, in which fi-iend Monsieiir has had some
share.

Mynheer and Don do not chose, as yet, to let them know
what will be the nature of their entertainment, being desirous
of affording them the pleasure of surf rise. ^

October 9. — ^The British in Yorktown and Gloucester, in
Virginia, are now completely invested by land and water.
Yorktown "^^^ allied army, under his Excellency General
Invested. "Washington's command, commenced oi^erations
against the enemy in those towns, on Tliursday, the 27tli ulti-
mo, and we are assured that the French and American bat-
teries were playing successfully against the enemy, on that
and the three following days."

October 17. — Day before yesterday a party of refugees
from Sandy Hook landed at Shrewsbury, in Monmouth county.
Doctor Nathaniel ^^^w Jcrscy, and iiuder covcr ofthc night marched
soudderkiued. undiscovercd to Colt's Neck, near fifteen miles
from the place of their landing, when they took six of the inhab-
itants from their houses. Tlie alarm reached the Court House
between four and five o'clock yesterday morning, when a small
number of the inhabitants who were in the village of Freehold
and its vicinity, (accompanied by Doctor Nathaniel Scudder,
accidentally in the place that night,) went immediately in pur-
suit of them, hoping either to relieve their friends who had
been stolen into captivity, or to chastise the enemy for their
temerity. Tliey rode to Black Point, the place where the
refugees had landed, with all possible speed, fell in with, at-
tacked the rear of the refugee party, and drove them on board

' Pennsylvania Packet, October 6. " Gaine's Mercury, October 22.

1781.] DOCTOE NATII.VNIEL SCUDPEE. 505

their boats ; iu which skirmishing, to the great grief of our
party, Doctor Nathaniel Seudder, wliilst he was bravely advanc-
ing on the enemy, received a wound from a musket ball passing
through the head, of which he instantly expired. His remains
M'ere removed from the place of action to his own house, with
all the decency and solemnity suitable to so mournful and
melancholy an event. To-day a most excellent and affect-
ing sermon was preached on the occasion of his funeral by the
Eev. Mr. Woodhull, from the following words : — " And all
Judea and Jerusalem mourned for Josiah ; " 2 Chronicles
XXXV., 2ith and 25th verses. After which, his remains, at-
tended by the most numerous and respectable concourse of
people ever laiown on a similar occasion in this country, were
interred at the Presbyterian Church in Freehold, with the
honors of war.

Few men have fallen in this country who were so iiseful in
life, and so generally mourned in death. He was a tender
husband, an affectionate parent, a sympathetic, generous, real
friend, a disinterested, determined patriot, "and has, since the
commencement of the war, devoted his time, his talents, and a
large part of a comfortable estate, to the service of his country,
and what will add a lustre to the whole, we trust he is a fin-
ished Christian.

Thus has this great and good man fallen in the prime of
life, and in the midst of his usefulness, having left behind him
an inconsolable widow, five amiable children, and a very
numerous acquaintance to lament his fall."

October IS. — Yesteedat tlie anniversary of the surrender
of General Burgoyne's army was celebrated at Peckskill, in
New York, by the officers of the Third Massachu- celebration of Bur-
setts brigade, in a manner which would have s'-y^'^ surrender,
given satisfaction to any gentlemen who are sensible of the
important events of the day. Colonel commandant Greaton
gave an elegant entertainment, at wliicli were present Major-
General Heath and suite, the officers of the brigade, and a
number of other gentlemen.

' New Jersey Journal, October 31.

606 raARY OF THE EKVOLITTION. [1781.

Tlie recollection of tlie glorious victory which was com-
pleted on that day, and the prospect of events equally glo-
rious, animated every breast with the most pleasing sensations,
and diffused a lively joy on every countenance. An elegant
concert of music attended the entertainment, and after dinner
tlie following toasts were drank : — 1. The ever memorable 17th
of October, 1777 ; 2. The 19th of September, 1777 ; 3. Hie
7th of October, 1777 ; 4. The memory of those gallant officers
and soldiers who fell in acquiring the glory of the day we now
celebrate ; 5. The United States of America, and Congress ; 6.
His most Christian Majesty ; 7. General "Washington ; 8.
Count de Grasse ; 9. Count de Eochambeau ;' 10. Tlie fleet
and the allied army, employed on the glorious expedition in
Yirginia; 11. General Greene, and the brave army under his
command ; 12. Our ambassadors at foreign courts ; 13. May
freedom, peace, and happiness be established in America, and
extend throughout the world : — ■

While scenes of transport every breast inspire,
The muse too triumphs in her kindling fire ;
Blest in this bliss, she lifts a bolder wing,
Aids every wish, and tunes the harp to sing.
To their glad concert wakes the accordant strain,
And mingles with the music of the plain.
" Joy to the bands ! " her voice arose.

Who charmed that veteran host of foes ;
Who bade Britain's glory fade.
And placed the wreath on fair Columbia's head.

Hail the day and mark it well.

When the scourge of freedom fell.

When your dawning glory shone ;

Mark it, freemen ! 'tis your own.

Now recount your toils with pleasure,
View the strife and sum the treasure,
Run the battles o'er again,
Sound the charge and sweep the plain.
Here behold the foe pursuing.

How he drives his headlong way,
Whelming towns and realms in ruin.

Sure to seize the distant prey.

' Commander of the French army.

1781.] SCEEEKDER OF C0EXWALLI3. 507

Fear and faithless tribes adore him,

Join the shout and yield him room ;
Now Albania ! fall before him,

Now rebellion learn your doom ;
But dread Bemis to the skies
Bade the opposing stand and rise.
And arms dispute the day,

On that proud height

You dared the fight,

Till welcome night

Concealed their flight,
And swept the war away.

Hail the day and mark it well.

When the scourge of freedom fell,

When your dawning glory shone ;

Mark it, freemen, 'tis your own.

Again the well-known hUl they try.
Again they fall, again they fly,

Again you sweep the field,
Till thundering batteries cease to roar.
They give the fancied conquest o'er.
And trembling thousands yield.

Hail the day and mark it well.

Then the pride of Britain fell.

Then your dawning glory shone ;

Mark it, heroes, 'tis your own.

And soon the rival day shall shine.
The task, great Washington, be thine,

To give it equal fame ;
Another vaunting host to thee,
Now swell their pride, now bend the knee,

To crown thy finish'd name.
Then every glad blessing thy country shall lend.

When her foes and her slaughter shall cease.
Shall arise to the hero who bade her ascend

To conquest, to glory, and peace.'

OcTOBEE 19. — Be it remembered, that on the seventeentli
of October, 1Y81, Lieuten ant-General Earl Cornwallis, with
above five thousand British troops, sm-rendered cornw.iiiis's
prisoners of war to his Excellency General George sur'-'^"'ici-.
Washington, commander-in-chief of the allied forces of France
and America ! La us Deo ! ^

' New York Packet, October 25. " Same, November 1.

608 DIAET OF THE EEVOLUTION. [1781.

Yesterday commissioners were appointed to adjust the

etiquette of tlie capitulation ; the Viscount dc Noailles, and

Lieutenant-Colonel Laurens, aide-de-camp to the

Capitulation. , . , . „ , ^ i ,,. ,

commander-m-chiei, on the part ot the allied
army, and Colonel Dundas and Major Eoss, aide-de-camp to
Lord Cornwallis, on tliat of the enemy. To-day,. about one
o'clock, the articles of capitulation were signed and inter-
changed, and about two o'clock, P.M., the British garrison of
York, led on by General O'Hara, (Lord Cornwallis being in-
disposed^ were condncted by General Lincoln through the
combined army, di'awn up in two lines to a field, Avhere, hav-
ing grounded their arms, and stripped off their accoutrements,
tliey were reconducted through the lines, and committed to the
care of a guard. At tlie same time and in the same manner
the garrison of Gloucester was surrendered to the command
of the Duke de Lauzun. Previous to this, a detachment of
French, and one of American troops, took possession of the
British horn Avorks, and planted on the epaulements the stand-
ards of the two nations. The brilliant appearance of the
allied army, the joy which diflused itself from rank to rank,
contrasted with the mortification, the despondence, and un-
sokliery behavior of the British troops, formed one of the most
pleasing prospects a patriot can behold, or even his fancy de-
fiict.'

In justice to the brave, the unfortunate garrison of Charles-

' An officer of rank in the Jersey line, in a letter dated October 21, says : —
" If I could communicate the pleasure felt on seeing the poor proud British
ground their arms, it would give you new and inexpressible sensations.

" The allied army was drawn up in two straight lines, facing each other, leaving
a space for the British column to pass. The commander-in-chief with his suite on
'Jie right of the American line ; the Count de Koehambeau opposite, on the left
of the French. Lord Cornwallis pleading indi.^position, the British were led by
General O'Hara, conducted by General Lincoln. Their colors cased, and they
not allowed to beat a French or American march.

" The British officers in general behaved like boys who had been whipped at
school; some bit their lips, some pouted, others cried ; their round, broad-brimmed
hats were well adapted to the occasion, hiding: those faces they were ashamed
to show. The foreign regiments made a much more military appearance, and
the conduct of their officers was far more becoming men of fortitude." — New Jersey
Gasette, November V.

1781.] SUERENDER OF COENWALLIS. 509

ton, the terms imposed on them were made the basis of the
present capitulation, and on the worthy General Lincoln was
conferred the snpreme delight of giving laws to those men,
who had treated him with the insolence of conqnerors. The
garrisons are prisoners of war, to be disposed of in America at
our option, to march out with cased colors, and to play no
French or American tune. All plundered property to be
restored to its owners ; private baggage secured to the officers,
and private property to the British merchants and traders, the
continent having the right of pre-emption.

K"o returns have been handed in, but from the accounts of
the British officers, there are between five and six thousand pris-
oners, including sick and wounded. Their military stores are
trifling ; their commissary stores do not exceed six hundred bar-
rels of pork, and about one thousand barrels of bread and flour.
Xear one hundred vessels, with their sailors and marines, have
fallen into the hands of the French fleet under the capitulation.
The British loss during the siege, they allow to be very con-
siderable ; the loss of the allied army does not exceed three
hundred killcl and wounded, a small portion of wliom are
officers.

]S"ever was a plan more wisely concerted, or more happily
and vigorously executed, than the present. The wisdom, per-
severance, and military talents of our illustrious commander,
shone with superior lustre on this occasion, and if possible,
nmst increase the love and veneration of his countrjnnen. The
well-concerted and animated support of the Count de Grasse,
was essentially conducive to the completion of this glorious
event, and deserves the wannest thanks of his own country,
and the grateful plaudits of e\'ery American.

The exertions of the Count de Eochambeau, and all the
officers and soldiers of the French army, can never be excelled,
and only equalled by their American friends, who glowed with
the laudable ambition of imitating the achievement of the
finest body of men in. the M'orld. Tlie only contention which
subsisted during the siege between the troops of the two na-
tions, was the glorious one of excelling each other in operations
against the common enemy, and in doing justice to each others'

510 DIAEY OF THE REVOLUTION. [1781.

merits. An army, thus cemented by affection, created by a
union of interests and the intercourse of good offices, and
animated by an attachment to the rights of mankind, could
not fail of triumphing over a body of troops, enlisted under the
banners of despotism, and led on by the hopes of plunder ;
who, made insolent by partial victories, gave looss to the
greatest licentiousness and brutality that ever disgraced ii dis-
ciplined corps. The exjjiring groans of thousands, who in vain
begged Cornwallis for protection, and whom he inhumanly
starved, have ascended to the throne of Almighty justice, and
must bring down vengeance on his guilty head. It is sincere-
ly to be wished, for the sake of humanity, that his lordship
had made a more obstinate defence, that the allied army,
obliged to storm his M^orks, might have offered up him and his
troops as a sacrifice to the violated rights of humanity ! '

October 20. — General "Washington in his after orders of
to-day, thus congratulates the army on the glorious event of
wasinn''ton's jesterday : — Tlie generous proofs which his most
Coiigi-.ituiations. Christian Majesty has given of his attachment to
the cause of America, must force conviction in the minds of the
most deceived amongst the enemy, relatively to the decisive
good consequences of the alliance, and inspire every citizen of
these States with sentiments of the most unalterable gratitude.
His fleet, the most numerous and powerful tluxt ever appeared
in these seas, commanded by an admiral, whose fortune and
talents ensure great events — an army of the most admii'able
composition both in officers and men, are the pledges of his
friendship to the United States, and their co-operation has en-
sured us the present signal success.

Tlie general, upon this occasion, entreats his Excellency
Count de Eochambeau to accept his most grateful acknowl-
edgments for his counsels and assistance at all times. He pre-
sents his warmest thanks to the Generals Baron de Yiomenil,
Chevalier Chastellnx, Marquis de Simop, and Count de Vio-
menil, and to Brigadier-General de Choisey, wlio had a sepa-

' New York Journal, November 12.

1781.] Washington's congeatulations. r.ll

rate command, for the illustrious manner in wliich tliey have
advanced the interest of the common cause.

lie requests that Count de RochamLeau M-ill be pleased to
communicate to the army under his immediate command, the
high sense he entertains of the distinguished merits of the officers
and soldiers of every corps, and that he Avill present, in his
name, to the regiments of Ageuois and Deuxponts, the two
pieces of brass ordnance captured by them, as a testimony of
their gallantry in storming the enemy's redoubt on the night
of the 1-lth instant, when officers and men so universally vied
with each other in the exercise of every soldier-like virtue.

The general's thanks to each individual of merit, would
comprehend the whole army ; but he thinks himself bound,
however, by affection, duty, and gratitude, to express his obli-
gations to Major-Generals Lincobi, De la Fayette, and Steuben,
for their dispositions in the trenches ; to Oeneral du Portail,
and Colonel Carney, for the vigor and knowledge which were
eonspicuoi^s in their conduct of the attacks ; and to General
Knox, and Colonel de Aberville, for their great care, atten-
tion, and fatigue, in bringing forward the artillery and stores,
and for their judicious and spirited management of them in the
parallels.

He requests the gentlemen before mentioned to communi-
cate his thanks to the officers and soldiers of their respe<itive
commands.

Ligi'atitude, which the general hopes never to be g^^ilty of,
would be conspicuous in hun was he to omit thanking, in the
warmest terms, his Excellency Governor Nelson, for the aid
he has derived from him, and from the militia under his com-
mand, to whose activity, emulation, and courage, much ap-
plause is due. Tlie greatness of the acquisition will be an am-
ple compensation for the hardships and hazards which they
encountered with so much patriotism and firmness.

In order to infuse the general joy through every breast, the
general orders that those men belonging to the army who may
now be in confinement, shall be pardoned, released, and join
their respective corps.

Divine service is to be performed to-morrow in the several

■ 512 DIARY OF TIIK IIEVOLUTION. [1781.

brigades or divisions. The commander-in-eliief earnestly re-
commends that the troops not on duty shovald universally at-
tend, with that seriousness of deportment and gratitude of
heart which the recognition of such reiterated and astonishing
interposition of Providence, demands of us.'

October 20. — ^Tms morning, Cornwallis, in a letter to Sir
Henry Clinton, gives tlie following accoiint of the siege, which
cornwaiiis's Ee- terminated yesterday in his surrender to the

port ofthe Siege of ,,.-,. o t? j a • u T

Yorktown. allied torccs 01 ± ranee and America : — " 1 never
saw Yorktown in any favorable light, but when I found I was
to be attacked in it in so unprepared a state, by so powerful
an army and artillery, nothing but the hopes of relief would
have induced me to attempt its defence, for I would either
have endeavored to escape to New York, by rapid marches
from the Gloucester side, immediately on the arrival of Gen-
eral Washington's troops at Williamsburg, or I would, notwith-
standing the disparity of numbers, have attacked them in the
open field, where it might have been just possible that fortune
would have favored the gallantry of the handful of troops un-
der my command. But being assured by your Excellency's
letters, that every possible means would be tried by the navy
and army to relieve us, I could not think myself at liberty to
ventvre on either of those desperate attempts. Therefore, after
remaining two days in a strong position in front of this place,
in hopes of being attacked, upon observing that the enemy
were taking measures which could not fail of turning my left
flanlc in a short time, and receiving on the second evening your
letter of the 21:th of September, informing me that the relief
would sail about the 5th of October, I withdrew within the
works on the night of the 29th of September, hoping, by the
labor and firmness of the soldiers, to protract the defence until
you could arrive. Every thing was to be expected from the
spirit of the troops, but every disadvantage attended their
labors, as the works were to be continued under the enemy's
fire, and our stock of intrenching tools, which did not much

' New York Packet, November 15.

^^t-c^^ /J^y /

^,«<?--2,'^Ti-^^^^^

< ^

1781.] COENWALLIS'S LETTER TO CLINTON. 613

exceed four liiindred wlien we began to work in the latter end
of August, was now much diminished.

" The enemy broke ground on the 30th, and constructed on
that night, and the two following days and nights, two re-
doubts, which, with some works that had belonged to our out-
ward position, occupied a gorge between two creeks or ravines,
which come from the river on each side of the town. On the
night of the 6th of October they made their first parallel,
extending from its right on the river to a deep ravine on the
left, nearly opposite to the centre of this place, and embracing
our whole left, at the distance of six hundred yards. Having
perfected this parallel, their batteries opened on the evening
of the 9tli against our left, and other batteries fired at the same
time against a redoubt advanced over the creek upon our left,
and defended by about one hundred and twenty men of the
23d regiment, and marines, who maintained that post with un-
common gallantry. The fire continued incessant from heavy
cannon, and from mortars and howitzers, throwing shells from
eight to sixteen inches, until our guns on the left were silenced,
our works much damaged, and our loss of men considerable.
On the night of the llth they began their second parallel,
about three hundred yards nearer to us. The troops being
much weakened by sickness, as well as by the fire of the be-
siegers, and observing that the enemy had not only secured their
flanks, but were proceeding in every respect with the utmost
regularity and caution, I could not venture so large sorties
as to hope from them any considerable effect, but otherwise I
did every thing in my power to interrupt their work, by open-
ing new embrazures for guns, and keeping a constant fire with
all the howitzers and small mortars that we could man.

" On the evening of the l-lth they assaulted and carried two
redoubts, that had been advanced about three hundred yards,
for the purpose of delaying their approaches, and covering our
left flank, and during the night included them in their second
parallel, on which they continued to Avork with the utmost
exertion. Being perfectly sensible that our works could not
stand many hours after the ojiening of the batteries of that
parallel, we not only continued a constant fire with all our

A'OL II.— 3.3

514 DIAET OF THE EEVOLTJTION. [1781.

mortars, and every gun that could be brought to bear iipon it,
but a little before daybreak in the morning of the 16th, I or-
dered a sortie of about three hundred and iifty men, under the
direction of Lieutenant-Colonel Abercrombio, to attack two
batteries which appeared to be in the greatest forwardness,
and to spike the guns ; a detachment of guards, with the 80th
company of grenadiers, under the command of Lieutenant-
Colonel Lake, attacked the one, and one of light infantry under
the command of Major Armstrong attacked the other, and
both succeeded in forcing the redoubts that covered them,
spiking eleven guns, and killing or woundmg about one hun-
dred of the French troops, who had the guard of that part of
the trenches, and with little loss on our side.

" This action, though extremely honorable to the officers and
soldiers who executed it, proved of little public advantage, for
the cannon having been spiked in a hurry, Avere soon rendered
fit for service again, and before dark the whole parallel and
batteries appeared to be nearly complete.

" At this time we knew that there was no part of the whole
front attacked in which we coiild show a single gun, and our
shells were nearly expended ; I had therefore only to choose
between preparing to surrender next day, or endeavoring to
get off with the greatest part of the troops, and I determined
to attempt the latter, reflecting that though it should prove
unsuccessful in its object, it might at least delay the enemy in
the prosecution of further enterprises. Sixteen large boats
were prepared, and upon other pretexts were ordered to be in
readiness to receive troops precisely at ten o'clock ; with those
I hoped to pass the infantry during the night, abandoning our
baggage, and leaving a detachment to capitulate for the town's
people, and for the sick and wounded, on which subject a let-
ter was ready to be delivered to General Washington. After
making my arrangements with the utmost secrecy, the light
infantry, the greatest part of the guards, and part of the 23d
regiment, embarked at the hour appointed, and most of them
landed at Gloucester, but at the critical moment, the weather
from being moderate and calm, changed to a most violent
storm of wind and rain, and drove all the boats, some of which
had troops on board, down the river.

1781.] COENW^LLLIS'S LETTER TO CLINTON. 515

" It was soon evident tliat the intended passage was imprac-
ticable, and the absence of the boats rendered it ecpially im-
possible to bring back the troops that had passed, which I had
ordei'ed abont two o'clock in the morning. Li this sitiiation,
■with my little force divided, the enemy's batteries opened at
daybreak. Tlie passage between this place and Gloucester was
mnch exposed, biit the boats having now returned, they were
ordered to bring back the troops that had passed during the
night, and they joined us in the forenoon without much loss.
Our works in the mean time were going to niin, and not hav-
ing been able to strengthen them by abbatis, nor in any other
manner than by a slight friezing, which the enemy's artillery
were demolishing whenever they fired, my opinion entirely
coincided with that of the engineer and the principal officers
of the army, that they were in many places very assailable in
the forenoon, and that by the continuance of the same fire for
a few hours longer, they woiild he in such a state as to render
it desperate with our munbers to maintain them. We at that
time could not fire a single gun, only one eight-inch, and little
more than one hiindred cohorn-shells remained ; a diversion
by the French ships of war that lay at the mouth of York
Eiver was to be ex|Dected, our numbers had been diminished
by the enemy's fire, but particularly by sickness, and the
sti-ength and spirits of those in the works were much exhausted
by the fatigue of constant watching and unremitting duty.

" Under all these circumstances I thought it would have
been wanton and inhuman to the last degree, to sacrifice the
lives of this small body of gallant soldiers who had ever be-
haved with so much fidelity and courage, by exposing them
to an assault, which, from the numbers and precautions of the
enemy, could not fail to succeed. I therefore proposed to
capitulate.

" I sincerely lament that better terms of capitulation could
not be obtained, but I have neglected nothing to alleviate the
misfortunes and distress of both officers and soldiers. Tlie men
are well clothed, and provided with necessaries, and I trust
will be regularly supplied by the means of the officers that are
permitted to remain with them. Tlie treatment m general that

516 DIAIIY OF TllK KEVOLUTION. [1Y81.

we have received from tlie enemy since our surrender, has
been jDerfectly good and proper, but the kindness and atten-
tion that has been shown to us by the French officers in par-
ticular, their delicate sensibility of our sitiiation, their gener-
ous and pressing offers of money both public and private to
any amount, has really gone beyond what I can possibly
describe, and will, I hope, make an impression on the breast
of every British officer whenever the fortune of war should
put any of them into our power.

" Although the event has been so xmfortunate, the patience
of the soldiers in bearing the greatest fatigues, and their firm-
ness and intrepidity under a persevering fire of shot and shells,
that I believe has not often been exceeded, deserves the high-
est commendation and praise ; a successful defence, however,
in our situation, was perhaps impossible, for the place could
only be reckoned an intrenched camp, subject in many places
to enfilades, and the ground in general so disadvantageous,
that nothing but the necessity of fortifying it as a post to pro-
tect the navy, could have induced any person to erect works
upon it. Our force dimuiished daily by sickness and other losses,
and was reduced, when ofiered to capitulate, on this side to
little more than three thousand two hundred rank and file, fit
for diity, including officers, servants, and artificers, and at
Gloucester, about six hundred, including cavalry. The enemy's
army consisted of upwards of eight thousand French, nearly
as many Continentals, and five thousand militia. They
brought an immense train of heavy artillery, most amply fur-
nished with ammunition, and perfectly well-mamied.

" The constant and imiversal cheerfulness and sjjirit of the
officers in all hardship and danger, deserve my warmest ac-
knowledgments, and I have been particularly indebted to
Brigadier-General O'llara, and to Lieutenant- Colonel Aber-
crombie, the former commanding on the right, and the latter
on the left, for their attention and exertion on every occasion.
The detachment of the 23d regiment and marines in the re-
doubt on the right, commanded by Captain Apthorjie, and the
siibsequent detachments commanded by Lieutenant-Colonel
Johnston, deserve particular commendation ; Captain Kock-

17S1.] COENWAIXIS CEITICIZED. 517

port who commanded the artillery, and indeed every officer
and soldier of that distinguished corps, and Lieutenant Suther-
land the commandmg engineer, have merited in every respect
my highest approbation, and I cannot sufficiently acknowledge
my obligations to Captain Symmonds, who commanded his
Majesty's ships, and the other officers and seamen of the navy,
for their zealous and active co-operation." '

Aftee an attentive perusal of Lord Cornwallis's letter to Sir
Henry Clinton, containing an account of the reduction of his
post and army m Virginia, we think the follow- £,g^^^],i,.3 j_^tt„
ing observations are equally just and natural : — cnticized.

I. That his lordship is no general. This is evident : — 1.
From the natm-e of the posts he occupied ; 2. From the struc-
ture of his works ; 3. From his presuming it impracticable to
escape to ISTew York by land ; 4. From his neglecting to obtain
earlier intelligence of the approach of General Washington,
at the head of the allied army.

II. Bis lordship is no soldier. This is evident : — 1. From
his neglecting to attack the Marquis De la Fayette and the
French troops, before the arrival of General Washington ; 2.
From his evacuating his outposts at the approach of the
French grenadiers ; 3. From his not daring to make a sortie, by
which he might have injured our works, and protracted the
siege for several weeks.

in. His lordship is no politician. This is evident: — 1.
From his neglecting to take notice of the conduct of the Ger-
man troops during the siege. This impolitic omission will
probably be resented by large and immediate desertions from
the German corps who are now in captivity among us. 2.
From his accounts of the strength of the American army.
The powers of Europe must soon see the impossibility of con-
quering America, when they perceive from Lord Cornwallis's
letter that only one of our armies consisted, after a war of
nearly six years, of eight thousand regulars and five thousand
militiamen.

' Rivington's Gazette, NoTcnibcr 24, ITSl.

518 DIABT OF THE EEVOLUTION. [1781.

rV. Sis lordsJd]) is no (jenileman. This is evident from
his ungrateful silence as to the noble and generous conduct of
General "Washington and the American officers to him and
his armj after the capitulation.

The magnanimity, humanity, and politeness of the com-
mander-in-chief of the American armies wordd have extorted
expressions of gratitude and respect from an Indian savage, a
Tartar, or a Turk. A British General and an Englisli noble-
man is the only human being that could have treated such su-
perlative virtue with sullen disrespect.'

OcTOBEE 27. — An honest old German, a watchman of Phila-
delphia, having conducted the express rider from Yorktown, to
the door of his Excellency the President of Congress, a few
nights ago, continued the duties of his office, calling out :
" Basht dree o' — glock, und Gornwal — lis isht da — ken." °

ScAMMEL IS DEAD : — "Wlicu the good man, the just, the gen-
erous, and the brave, and one who has from a sense of duty.
Colonel Alexander founded in the reflection of a virtuoiis and en-

scammei. lightened mmd, and in defence of his country's
freedom, faced death in all its forms, is suddenly snatched from
the scenes of his life ; the eye of liberty weeps a mournful tear,
and the heart of virtue swells with a rending sigh.

La the late siege of Yorktown fell that accomplished soldier,
and beloved citizen, Alexander Scammel, colonel of the first
battalion of the New Hampshire line.^ He was born at Men-
don, in the State of Massachusetts, and educated at Harvard
College, where at, all times he had the approbation and ap-
plause of the governors, and the universal esteem of his fellow-
students ; after his education was completed, he was intro-
duced to the world. Such was the softness of his manners,
and the ease of his address, that all persons of politeness and
sentiment, to whom he was introduced, coveted nothuig more

' " A Subaltern," in the New Tork Packet, December 27.
' New Tork Packet, November 1.

^ Colonel Scammell was wounded while reconnoitring a redoubt, on the morn-
ing of the oOth of September, and died ou the 6th of October.

1781.] COLONEL ALEXANDER SCAMMEL. 519

than liis intimate acquaintance. So sincere was lie in liis
friendship, that those to whom he professed it, engaged him
with the most unreserved confidence ; he breathed the senti-
ments of civil liberty at so early a period of his life, that it
might be easily foreseen he was peculiarly formed for the
most important and honorable purposes. He took an early
and decided part in his coimtry's cause, and readily flew to
her aid on the first commencement of hostilities ; he served as
brigade-major to General Sullivan, and afterwards as aid to
the same general, and to General Lee, and was afterwards ap-
pointed a colonel in the New Hampshire line ; but that place
not giving suflicient scope to his extraordinary abilities, he was
made adjutant-general of the American army, thereby be-
coming one of General Washington's family. He was so happy
as to obtain the approbation of the greatest character now in
the world ; he had the general's entire confidence, and was
highly honored by being ranked among his peculiar friends,
a situation at the same time coveted and envied by some of
the greatest characters in Europe and America. "With tliis
berth he became dissatisfied, because it often excused him in
time of action from those dangers to which others were ex-
posed ; he therefore, prompted by a peculiar generosity of sen-
timent, again joined his battalion, and in the late expedition
was honored with the command of the light infantry ; but
early in the siege, as he was recomioitring the enemy's posi-
tion, lie received a shot, which put an end to his useful and
well-improved life.

Tliough no bust or sculptured stone shall dash his memory
on the traveller's curious mind, his patriot virtues shall live
in tlie memory of his grateful country, while freedom dwells
tm eartli, and his distinguished character shall furnish the his-
tory of this glorious war with many a brilliant page ; our in-
dependence shall often point to all his many wounds, and be
a lasting monument of aU his fame.'

October 2S. — Yesterday the great and unportant event of

' Pennsylvania Packet, November 29.

520 DIAEY OF THE REVOLUTION. [17S1.

the surrender of Lord Coruwallis and liis whole army, to the
combined forces commanded by his Excellency GENEEAL
cornwaiiis-s Sur- WASHINGTOlSr, was Celebrated at Trenton, in

render celebrated -..^

atTrentoD. JS(ew Jersey, with every mark of joy and festivity.
The day was ushered in with the beatmg of drmns, and the
American colors were displayed in various parts of the town.
At eleven o'clock in the forenoon, his Excellency the governor,
the Honorable the Council and Assembly, Avitli the inhabit-
ants of the town and vicinity, attended divine service at the
Presbyterian church, where a discom-se adapted to the occasion
was delivered by the Eeverend Mr. Spencer.

At noon a proper discharge of cannon was fired by the
C0113S of artillery belonging to the town, in the presence of the
governor. General Dickinson, the members of the Legislature,
and the gentlemen of the town and neighboi'hood, assembled
on the common.

At three in the afternoon the company repaired to an
elegant entertainment, at which the following toasts were
drank, and severally accompanied with a discharge of ar-
tillery : — •

1. Tlie United States of America; 2. The Congress; 3.
Tlie king of France ; 4. General Washington and the Ameri-
can army; 5. The Count de Kochambeau and the French
army ; 6. The Coimt de Grasse and the French fleet ; 7. Gen-
eral Greene and the Southern army ; 8. The friends of liberty
throughout the world ; 9. The memory of Generals Warren,
Montgomery, and all the other heroes who have fallen in the
defence of the liberties of America ; 10. Peace on honorable
terms, or war forever ; 11. Tlie great and heroic Hyder Ali,
raised up by Providence to avenge the numberless cruelties
perpetrated by the English on his unoffending coimtrymen, and
to clieck the insolence and reduce the power of Britain in the
East Indies ;' 12. Tlie governor and State of ISTew Jersey ; 13.
Tlie glorious 19th of October, 1Y81. At seven in the evening
the company retired, and the rejoicings were concluded by a

■ The accounts of the success of Hyder Ali in the East Indies, arrived in
America on the 23d of August, IVSl.

17S1.] ADDEESS TO COKNWALLIS. 521

brilliant illumination. Every thing was conducted with the
greatest good order and propriety, and we mention it with
pleasure, that not the least disturbance or irregularity happened
during the whole festivity. What greatly added also to the
joy inspired by this glorious event, was the pleasing recollec-
tion of the advantages already reaped from our alliance with
that magnanimous Prince, whose troops have had so great a
share in executing the important enterprise, an alliance now
more fimily cemented by the united effusion of French and
American blood, in a conquest the more agreeable to both na-
tions, for being obtained by their combined efforts as fellow-
soldiers and fellow-victors in the same triimiphant cause.'

October 30. — Ax American soldier, in the Maryland Ga-
zette, thus addresses the unfortimate Cornwallis : —

" My Lord : — A general who possesses that dignity of soul,
which exalts the conqueror above the insolence of a triumph,
and elevates the vanquished above meanness and Address to
despondence, will ever find the generous among comwains.
his enemies, ready to applaud his merit, and to drop a tear to
his misfortiines, whilst the officer who wages a savage warfare,
and sullies his victories by insults and inhumanity, will not
have a friend among the virtuous, even in the zenith of his
success, nor one of all mankind to sympathize Avith him on a
reverse of fortune. The philanthropy of America would be
highly gratified in paying your lordship the tribute due an en-
lightened and humane soldier, did your conduct deserve such
treatment ; but as hei' justice obliges her to view you in the
odious light of a cruel leader and an unprincipled plunderer, it
would be impio^is in her to treat you with generosity or deli-
cacy. As an American soldier I consider it a virtue to imbit-
ter your captivity, by recalling to your remembrance the follies
which have led to your present catastrophe, and to hold you
up as an object of imiversal detestation, by surroxmding jou
with an assemblage of your crimes ; but the implacable rcsent-

^ Kew Jersey Gazette, October 31. The celebration of this erent took place
at Princeton, New Jersey, October 23 ; at Albany, Xew York, November 3 ; and
at Paxton, Pennsylvania, October 27.

522 DIAET OF THE EEVOLTJTION. [1781.

ment I feel, when I reflect on your lordsliip's cruelties, shall
not hurry me beyond the bounds of candor and truth, or bribe
me to cloud your reputation with one undeserved shade.

" Considering your lordship as one of the principal actors in
the military drama, I have taken some pains to acquire a knowl-
edge of your principles and abilities, and I sincerely wish the
result of my inquiries was less degrading to hiiman nature.
As a politician, I have found you devoid of stability and in-
tegrity ; as a soldier, deficient in every amiable and leading
characteristic of your profession.

" When the present contest was merely a political question,
we observe your lordship engaged in a warm opposition to the
ministry, and, if parliamentary records are to be relied on, not
hesitating to declare, that should an armed force be called in to
the aid of their unconstitutional laws, resistance on the part of
America would become a duty they owed to themselves and
their posterity. These sentiments, my lord, were truly digni-
fied, and had you made them the unerring rule of your con-
duct, must have insured you the gratitude of America, and the
esteem of the virtuous of every nation ; but how opposite were
your professions and principles ! In a few months, regardless
of your solemn declarations, you prepare to embark for Ameri-
ca, and to enforce in a military character the very measures
which, as a senator, you had reprobated as unjust and oppres-
sive. This is a fact, my lord, which your warmest partisans
have not the effrontery to deny, and which no act or eloquence
can palliate ! Had you displayed in your operations the sub-
lime of military talents, and been crowned with every trophy
ambition fights for, this one act woiild damn you to eternal
infamy ! From the moment you consented to draw your sword
against her liberties, America ought to have viewed you as a
monster ; yet she formed a favorable idea of your character,
and gave you credit for virtues you never possessed, even in
contemplation. This erroneous opinion with respect to your
lordship must have flowed from your situation, which prevent-
ed both your head and heart from having a fair trial. Sir
"William Howe, whilst you acted under his immediate com-
mand, put you almost above the reach of fortune. At the

1781.] ADDEESS TO COENWALLIS. 523

head of the British grenadiers and light infantry, opposed to
raw and nndisciplmed troops, and of far inferior numbers, an
officer of the lowest rate abilities could not fail of acquiring
eclat, and it is very uncommon for crimes to be imputed to the
hero of a triumph. The smiles of prosperity cover a multitude
of sins in private life, but a fortunate general is immaciilate in
the eyes of a misjudging world.

" An unbounded ambition is the soiirce of all your lord-
ship's misfortunes. Flattered with the fond idea of outstripping
yo\ir good friend Sir Hemy Clinton in miUtary fame, and be-
coming commander-in-chief, you used all your influence to ob-
tain a separate coimnand, and the Southern States were fixed
on as the theatre of yoiir achievements. Lilie Phaeton, you
imprudently engaged in an undertaking beyond your abilities,
gave the rein to your enterprise, and left reason and humanity
behind to lament your follies and cruelties, and like that rash
adventui'er, you have not only wrought yoiir own ruin, but
have involved thousands in unmerited calamity.

" The battle of Camden was the first memorable event that
marked your lordship's operations, which, though it aftbrded
you the momentary exultation of a dear bought victory, and
gave yoii an opportunity of figuring in the gazettes at the ex-
pense of candor, proved disgraceful to you in its consequences.
Instead of improving the advantages of this success, you
suffered your army to relax then- disciplme, in a state of inac-
tivity, whilst your enemy was recovering from the shock of
the defeat. After dreaming away some months, you marched
into ISTorth Carolina and took possession of Charlotte ; but find-
ing the vude Whigs of Mecklenburgh very troublesome, and
hearing a small body of continentals and militia were movmg
towards you, your lordship made a precipitate retreat to the
strongholds of "Winsborough, and suffered a part of your bag-
gage to come into our hands, within sight of your army. In
the mean time, Colonel Ferguson, being unsupported by yom-
lordship, fell a sacrifice to his partisan spu'it, and several of
your other detachments were defeated by the militia. The
Tories, who, encom'aged by your superior force and fortune,
were arming in your cause, gave over the design, and lay still

524 DIAET OF THE KEVOLTjTIOX. [1781.

at liome. All tliese events flowed from your lordsliip's amaz-
ing inactivity. Although the American forces did not amount
to half the number you could have brought into the field, I
verily believe your lordship would have slept away the winter
in a southern climate, the season for active operations, had not
General Morgan's detachment aroused you from your lethargy,
and alarmed you for your outposts ; but even then you acted
like a man stupefied with opiates. When you might have
subjected Morgan to the operations of your whole force, you
opposed to him a detachment, not much superior in munber to
his command, and, contrary to the maxims of good policy, left
that doubtful which you might have made certain. Was it
just to judge from events, the folly of this aneasiire would re-
ceive additional j)roofs from its unfortunate issue. Your dar-
ling Tarleton met with a complete defeat, and in return for
your lordship's unwarranted partiality in his favor, threw you
into a delirium by the tale of his misfortunes. In a paroxysm
of grief and rage, yoii made a biirnt offering of your baggage,
and became rash, bold, and enterprising. Yoii conceived the
daring idea of recovering your captivated troops, and of tear-
ing the laurel wreath from the brow of the illustrious Morgan ;
and had this triumph affected him as the success at Camden
did your lordship, you would most certainly have eifected it ;
but he was too great an ofticer to consider himself Adctorious,
imtil he had secured the fruits of his victory. The historian
who delineates the character of the hero of the Cowpens, will
be at a loss to determine whether he deserves greater applause
for his gallantry and address in obtaining the A-ictory, or for
his great exertion of abilities in securing and improving the
advantages resulting from it.

" Disappointed in this attempt, and General Greene's army
and Morgan's detachment having formed a jiinction, a new
object attracted your lordship's attention, and a new field was
open for the display of great talents. Every advantage an
oflicer could wish, who longed for a brilliant name, was on
your lordship's side. Tour army was greatly superior, both
in numbers and discipline, to that of your enemy, and you was
in the midst of your friends. It was your interest to bring on

17S1.] ADDEESS TO COEXWALLIS. 525

an immediate and decisive action, and consequently General
Greene's to avoid it. Here, tlien, was a trial of skill ; Greene's
addi-ess prevailed, and gave Mm tlie palm ; lie retired over the
Dan and Stanton Kivers in the face of yom- lordship's army,
in good order and without loss, and by amazing exertions
gained such an accession of force, as rendered it prudent and
advisable for him to meet yom- lordship in the field. He knew
that a defeat would be certain ruin to you, and coidd only be
a partial evil to him. Guilford was the scene of action ; the
contest was obstinate and bloody ; and although fortune gave
yom* lordslu'p the field, it termmated honorably for the Ameri-
can arms, and was attended with most of the good consequen-
ces of a victory. Tliis is not the suggestion of fancy or preju-
dice ; it is an assertion established by the most undeniable
facts. A few days aftei* yoiu' boasted success, we find your
lordship making a precipitate retreat, leaving your wounded
to our mercy, and your Tory friends to the justice of their
coimtry. Previous to your retreat, you issued a pompous
proclamation, emblazoning your success, and inviting these in-
fatuated men to fly to the royal standard for protection for their
property and persons, and then basely deserted them. I defy
your lordship to defend this conduct, either upon the principles
of policy, justice, or humanity. To destroy the confidence the
Tories had placed in the promises of government and her officers,
was surely impolitic ; to deny them that protection you prom-
ised them, unjust ; and to delude them into a conduct which
must subject them to punishment, the extreme of cruelty !

" With a victorious army you retii-ed to Wilmington, and
took shelter under the guns of your shipping, leaving your
posts in South Carolina and Georgia, which you had wasted
much time and spilt much blood in establishing, open to the
^•igilance of General Greene, who instantly took advantage of
your lordship's error, made a rapid march into those States,
and in a few months, by the most consummate address and
unwearied perseverance, reduced all yom* posts, except Charles-
ton, Savannah, and ISTinety-Six, and made their garrisons
prisoners of war. JSTinety-Six Avas on the point of surrender-
ing, and although relieved by the imexpccted arrival of troops

526 DIARY OF TIIE EEVOLrXION. [1Y81.

from Europe, was soon after abandoned. I ask yonr lordship
what advantages you promised yourself, equal to such certain
and important losses ? Surely you were not so ignorant as to
suppose that your marching through Yirginia would compen-
sate for your posts and garrisons sacrificed in Carolina and
Georgia. Deluded by the splendor of the enterprise, you lost
siglit of every other consideration, and rested your justification
on the event, which, had it been as brilliant as it is unfortu-
nate, such is the disposition of your countrymen, that they
would not only have acquitted you of rashness and folly, but
have decreed you a triumph !

" You have put all your trust in fortune, and she has jilted
you in the moment you most needed her favors. Despairing
of nothing yoiu-self, joii have taught your royal master and
his ministry to hope for every thing. Whilst warmed with
the prospect of the possession of the Southern States, and cher-
ishing a fond hope of an entire subjection of America, they
will receive the sad recital of your misfortunes, and your lord-
ship will be sacrificed to their disappointed ambition, and to
appease the clamors of the people. How trul}^ pitiable your
lordship's situation ! Deserted and abused by your own coun-
trymen, for your want of success and military talents ; despised
and execrated by America, for your want of Inunanity, you
must bid an eternal adieu to temporal felicity ; the suftragcs
of the world will deny you a good name, and a giiilty con-
science rob you of inward peace and domestic tranquillity !
Your lot, my lord, is really severe, but it is what you have
richly merited ! Yom- inhuman treatment of the wretched
slaves who fled to you for freedom and pi'otection, is more than
sufiicient to entitle you to the heaviest calamity. Callous to
the tender emotions of compassion, and steeled against the
miseries of yom- fellow creatures, your lordship can have no
claim on the sympathy of mankind, or the smiles of heaven." '

October 30. — Yesteeday the account of the surrender of
the British army, under the command of Lord Cornwallis, was

' New York Packet, November 22.

1781.] THE AMERICANS SUCCESSFUL. 527

received at Pouglikeepsie, New York ; soon after wliicli, his
Excellency tlie governor, with the members of the Senate and
Assembly, repaired to the Keformed Protestant celebration at
Dntch chnrch in that town, to return their grate- Ne°w York. '
ful acknowledgments to the Almighty Kuler of the Universe
for the signal success with which he has been graciously pleased
to crown the operations of the allied army. Dr. Livingston
officiated on the occasion. Tliis tribiite paid, the members of
the Legislature waited on his Excellency the governor, at his
house, to congratulate him on the happy event. Cannon were
fired, bonfires and illuminations exhibited in the evening, and
every decent demonstration closed the eoimnemoration of a
day, Avhich ought ever to be remembered with the warmest
emotions of gratitude to the sovereign disposer of all events,
by every person interested in the welfare of the United Ameri-
can States.'

During the day, a scouting party being on their return
to camp, heard the firing, and soon after met another party,
sent out as a relief. A negro belonging to the first, calling to
one in the latter, said : •" Cuffee, whas all dat firing we hear
to-day ? " The other replied : " O my dear soul, nofiin 'tall
only General Burgoyne hab a brodder born to-day." '

October 31. — -When the British were making rapid strides
towards the reduction of the State of Georgia, when all was
dark and gloomy around us, both in the political The success of the
and natural atmosphere, when a series of mis- Americans,
fortunes to the southward had blackened our annals, we darted
an eye through the cloud, and by secret impulse, ventured to

' At Fishkill, New York, the glorious victory was observed with exuberant
joy and festivity. A roasted ox and plenty of liquor formed the repast; a num-
ber of toasts were drank on the occasion. French and American colors wore dis-
played, cannon fired, and in the evening, illuminations, bonfires, rockets, and
squibs, gave agreeable amusement to the numerous spectators.

At Newburgh the occasion was observed in the same joyous manner, and to
enhven the entertainment, they hanged and burnt in effigy the traitor Arnold.
In New Windsor, Fredericksburg, and other towns, the same brilliant occasion,
was observed with demonstrations of gratitude and joy. — New York Packet, 1^0-
vember 1. ^ New Jersey Journal, January 9, 1782.

528 DIAET OF THE BEVOLXJTION. [1Y81.

predict " that good would come out of evil, and that the stie-
cesses of the enemy were only harbingers to theh- final over-
throw." This political speculation, with ecstatic joy, we now
have the pleasure of seeing fully vei'ified in the capture of
Cornwallis and his whole army, by that honor to human na-
ture and reproach to royalty, our illustrious Washington, who,
like the meridian smi, has disjaelled those nocturnal vapors that
hung around us, and put the most pleasing aspect upon our
political affau's, that any era of the present war has ever be-
held.'

' New Jersey Journal, October 31.

INDEX

Aaron, the fifer, notice of, i. 254.

Abel, Elijah, his house destroyed by General

Tryon, ii. 187.
Abercrombie, Lieutenant-Colonel, (British,)

wounded at Monmouth, ii. 69 ; notices of,

ii. 465, 614, 516.
Aberville, de. Colonel, ii. 511.
Abhorrers, the, of King Charles' time, i. 194.
" A Briton," a view of the execution of An-

" A Citizen," an appeal to the Tories by, ii.
60 ; an appeal to the Americans by, ii. 303.

Ackiss, Jolin, killed near Norfolk, Va., i. 170.

Ackland, Ma.ior, taken at Saratoga, i. 611.

Ackland, Lady Harriet, General Gates' opin-
ion of, 1. 612.

Adams, Captain, notice of, i. 297 ; of Beverly,

Adimb, Miior, at the captuie of Gcneial

Trcbcott, 1 470
Ad mix, Pektiah, killed at Chen 5 Valley , u

105
Adams, Pimuel, 1 34 " leads the pc ] 1 U

the no~i.,' 1 43 dccliied a rthLl 1 1 1) 1

cenedat NewYork,! 7d ixcepU 1 u(

land, 1 147 , tchcme toVeize hini 1 1 7
chdd mim 1 attu, 1 loO bis nnnni 1
sleepmj;, 1 190, notiCL of bis sputli im In

stances befiiended In II mLuck m .m-b
the expulsion of Hancock fium Coniruss 1
347 , prejiai ed a code of law s toi the Ann. 1 1
cans, 1 447 , the Congress aft aid of bim
cdled iMllain, 1 44S , notice of, 1 417, li -
difference with Ilmcock.u 7 Aiaitsontl
Ficnch minister, 11 So the Cionraell <1
Ameuca hispioclivitics foi iiidcpcniknct.

beconiLS I Cuholic Piie-t, u 14S
Addut-scs f ,thearmj cucul itcd in the c imp
at Cimbiidee, Mass ,1 171 , of the Toms
of New York to Gov Tr^on, 1 323, "A
Boldiei to the independent sons of America,
1 328 , to the Amencms, 1777, 1 379 , the
"out of door rebels" to Congi ess 1 443 , m
to the Tories, 11. 60 ; of Sir George
illier and Gov. Tryon to the people of
Connecticut, ii. 190; Timothy Standfast's
appeal to the Virginians, ii. 358 ; an Ameri-
can soldier to Cornwallis, ii. 521.
Admiral Warren Tavern, on the Lancaster

(Pa.) road, i. 499.
'■ Adolphus," article on the state of affairs in
America, by, ii. 6.

Vol. II.— 34.

Z\^

" A Dreamer," the political characters of

America discussed by, ii. 124.
Advertisements ; General Putnam advei-tised

as " an old Mack dog," i. 330 ; for a paioel

337; Wil! nil |; I I.M n- i;ui away, having
an irmi . : . ,if Peter Nunib"-
skulltiMi -- ■■ inhuman," ill u
Caroliiiii :. ', . r, i. 515 ; of Gen-
eral U.'v. ,- woiks, ii. 34; in

. 36.

A Fable, ,.

■1 ilie sheep, dogs.

boars, \v

-, i =56.

"AFnmi]i:ii-

1 -■ 1 !iiii 1 .Vmerira," ii. 22.

• writes in favor of independ-

ence, i.'236.

" A Freeman,'

addressto the American army.

by, i. 173.

Agnew, General, (Br.,) at Danbury 1777, i.

Albany, N T

Earthquake at 1 112 , notice

Aloott, Captain, 1 19

Aldcn, Colon

kilkd It Chcm Valley, 11 106

\Um , A^

T il Stilling)

Ml'lL \

,:1 Howe, 1368

1 1 1 SO, takui

1 163, a "high

llMll

ft his attempt

,111 M

niiis Ca„tle, 1

ino k

4 reports con

I Xcw York, his

1 1 1 4h

1 -Lit uudci the protectfon

ishoie with some Tories

" VU r i America com

Allison, Willi uii, tikcu piisoner at capture
of Foits Montgomery and Clinton, 1 509

Alner, .Teiry, iiist Collector of the poit of
New Yoik, his mannei of raising are\enue,
i. 230.

Alsop, John, notice of, i. 36 ; sets out for Con-
gress, i. 76 ; escaped from Congress, i. 290.

Amboy, N. J., ii. 233.

" America Rebellion, Miss," notice of, i. 288.

American Army, nearly completed, i. 92 ; state
of the, 1777: Washington ties his breeches
with a string, i. 399 ; at the North, move-

530

menta of the, i. 454; state of, in 1778, ii, 3;
the "rags" of, used for making iiaper
money, ii. 16 ; the position of, in July, 1778,

(■aote of, i. 423; adopted

111 i,iliei-ty," mai.ufioturers in Eng-

uip llic-ir elotlis with, ii. 17.

, Newspapers, how they will appear

American Prisoners

BritishT.i. 420 ; ii.

American Rebels to

American Rcvoluti
work on the, u. 20

American Soldier," remarks <

^'JPfi

Brydge3Rodnc\'-
ii. 335; anEngh-h
ii. 393 ; compared ^

493;

; stea

And

.(ielphia; hi-

v9,Be.yan„n .^ ,
inecdotos : of a il\
71 ; of a Parliam. i i
General Putnam, '

112 ; of Father (>'-\. i I

andSirWiHiam I.
sachusette Fisln i '

an English sliip, i i

eomb, i. 190 ; of ^i
Putnam, i. 231; oi
270; of George ti. 1\ i ' ' i
ter's iri-itaWlity, i. ,. a , ..1 om. i
at the Battle of rnuntuli, 1.3:
Franklin and Lord Stormont. i
General de Heister, i. 445 ; of E
Yoik at the H.agLie, i. 447; of the

vileil hatiim

2 , of Dr.

liravery of

i. 499 ; of Burgovno
and General Frazer, i.'512 ; of a French Offi-
cer who served under Gener.al Gates, i. 513 ;
of Colonel Bland's regiment, the bravery of,
ji. 7; of the Connecticut lifer boy, ii. 11 ; of
John Wilkes and Burgoyne, ii. 30 ; of the
rebel and his cat, ii. 70 ; of Doctor Franklin
and the Queen of France, ii. 83 ; of General
Robertson, and Loring the Commissary of
prisoners, ii. 110 ; of General "Wavnc at
Stony Point, ii. 194 ; of a French Whig on
the enthusiaBm of the Americaus, ii. 202 ;

of Count D'Estaing,
Robertson and Clinton'
Earl of Soulhanipton a
ii. 232 ; of Joseph Wa:

oldie

Rev. Na

Kerr, ii. 291; of anolhce'r in Pulaski's
mand, ii. 299 ; of the King of Prussia
Washington, ii. 309 ; of the soldier
cards, ii. 357; of Olive '
Delancey, ii. 384 ; of t

) poet,
of Sir
258 ; of

..-.., ^. ^., ... *..« , ... the German watch-
man at Philadelphia, ii. 518 ; of two negroes
and Cornwallis's surrender, ii. 527.

" A new Catechism." i. 391.

Anne Arundel County, Md., resolved to pub-
lish non-associators, i. 21.

" An Observer," remarks on the number
Seven, ii. 206.

Ansthruther, Captain, (Er.,) killed at the
.attack on Par.amus, ii. 203.

Appleton, Nathaniel, child of, named Wash-
ington, i. 169.

Apthorpe, Captain, (Br.,) at Torktown, ii. 516.

" ARtpultluan," Thoughts on independence

\ I 1' " ~li man of war, captured by the
I 1 1 iSij.

il'l'oasts.i. 22.
Villi- I i_. Ciiitain, surrenders Fort La-
1 1 M. u . , 1 1. 103 ; bravery at Guilford, ii. 401.
Ai.i'istioug, Lieutenant, at Powle's Hook, ii.

Armstrong, Major, (Am.,) at Eutaw Springs,

li. 486.
Arm-tronc;, Major, (Br.,) at Torktown, ii. 514.
Arnold, Benedict, Gen., his expedition to

Canada- wounded at Quebec, i. 185, 186,
Danbury, Conn., in 1777 ; liia horse

shot under hiii

I'liiladelplii

Wishingt.ii

orJe

id of the
liscovered,

York,

'■1 . ids' a letter of re^i'j:nation to

I ' I I, its treatment by General

.:2 ; in effigy at Philadelphia, ii.

7 -111 and Providence, li, 333; ad-

I - It in to, ii. 333 ; his crimes enumer-

il, II. ou4; thanksgiving on account ofthe

-co\ cry of the plot of, ii. 335 ; anecdote

General Robertson and Epigram on ;

effigy at New Milford, Conn., li. 337 ;

iti~h notice of, ii, 344; an Irish view of,

"II " A Question Answered," ii, 350;

1 I iiilo Virginia, ii. 3li6, 3S4 ; anec-

4')1; descent on New London,

Ashe, General, defeated at Briar Creek, Ga.,

ii. 138.
Ashfleld, Vincent Pearce, taken prisoner, i.
290.

Ashley, , promoter of the Deerfleld

(Mass.l instrnotions ii. 440.

.•ar, roughly handled in the

.310.

England," paper by, i. 43.

™iiiu.iuu=, , ofthe inhabitants ofthe

ity of New York, i. 71 ; of PhUadelphia, i.
72.
' ' A Stormont," a lie, i. 389.
Astouchcs, Chevalier de, ii. 409.
Atkins, Captain, (Br.,) at the attack on Sulli-
van's island, i. 259.

North Ri
"A Son of:
Associaf

I

pedition to Danbury, Coi
Auclimuty, Samuel, D. D., notice of, i. 12 ;

an American informer, i. 193; a eon of,

talicu prisoner at Stony Point, ii. 194 ; i.

290 ; death of, notice of, i. 402.
Auclinuity, Robert, i. 290.
Augusta, Ga., ii. 361,
"A Virginian," cliaracters of the leading

Americans by, i. 190.

the Tories by, ii.

B.abcock, George, i. 414.

Babcock, Lieutenant, at the capture of Gen-
eral Prescott, i. 470.

Babcock's Heights, in Westchester N. T.,
Americans posted on, ii, 94.

Bache, Tbeophilua, Qed to New York, i. 290 ;
surprised by the Jerseymen, ii. 63,

"Back Shad," the, of New Jersey, ii. 434.

Bagot, Edward, quotation from, ii. 422,

Bailey, .John, of Pouglikeepsie, nagetail' erect-
ed on the land of, i. 65.

Baillie, Robert, at the siege of Savannah, ii,

Baird, Sir James, notice of, ii. 96 ; at the
battle of Briar Creek, ii. 140.

Balfour, Nisbet, Captain, visits Marshfleld, i.
15 ; notice of, ii. 420, 481, 496 ; Lord Raw-
don's " Squire," ii. 431 : orders the execu-
tion of Colonel Hayne, li. 467.

Ball, Colonel, ii. 209.

Ball, Stephen, hung as a spy, ii. 383,

Ballard, Captain, at Cherry Valley, ii. 105.

Ballendine, Hamilton, Colonel, hanged at
Charleston, S. C, ii, 260,

B,all3 in honor of the Queen's birthday, at
New York, ii, 263 ; Baroness de Riedesel
and General Pattison, open the, 254.

B.iltholmai, de,' Lieutenant, ii, 454,

Baltimore, Md,, news of the battle of Lex-
ington .at, i. 76 ; notice of, i. 616.

Banby,Mas8.,i. 314.

Bancroft, Capt,, of Dunstable, Mass,, daugh-
ter of, named Martha Dandridge, i, 192.

B.anks, Commodore, (Br,,) at the Nantasket
expedition, i, 261.

Baptists, oppose the patriots, i. 30.

Barber, a patriotic, i. 146.

Barber, Francis, Colonel, wounded at Mon-
mouth, ii, 68.

Barber's Hist. Col, of Conn., quoted, i, 114,
123,

Barclay, Henry, D,D,, Rector of Trinity
Church, in New York, i, 402,

Barclay, Thomas H,, married, i, 146,

Barnegat, N. J, battle ofl', ii, 405.

Barnes, Captain, hia stratagem to regain his
ship, i. 165.

Barnes, Oliver, Capt. of Chelmsford, Mass.,
wounded at Battle of Lexington, i, 66,

Barre, Colonel, supports the Americans, ii.

B.arrel, Joseph, of Boston, i. 81.

Barrett, Nathaniel, Capt, of Concord, Mass,,

wounded at Battle of Lexington, i. 66.
Barrington, Captain, notice of, i, 207.
Barrow, Oliver, of Chelmsford, Mass., at

Battle of Lexington,!, 66,
Barton, Lieut, Col,, (Br,,) at Sullivan's attack

on Staten Island, i, 483.
Barton, 'William, takes General Prescott

prisoner, i, 467, 470,

531

Bassett, Burwell, Lady Washington at the

orders, i. 132.
Battles : Westminster Massacre, i. 51 ; at
Lexington, i. 63 ; at Concord, i. 64 ; at Grape
Island, Mass., i. 84; Hog Island, and Nod-
dles Island, i. 85 ; Breed's Hill, i, 97, 103 ;
on Roxbury Neck, Ms,, i, 109; on Charleston
Neck, Mass,, i, 119 ; at Gloucester, Mass., i.
124 ; at New York, i, 129 ; at Bristol, B, 1.,
i. 148 ; at Lerhmere's Point, Mass,, i, 166 ;
at the Great Bridge, Va., i. 179 ; at Quebec,
i, 185 ; at Norfolk, Va., i. 189 ; at Dorches-
ter, Mass., i, 205 ; at Moore's Creek, N, C,
i. 209 ; in Boston Harbor, i. 244 ; at Nantas-
ket, Mass., i, 261 ; at Sullivan's Island, S. C,
i, 257 ; on the Hudson River, i, 292 ; of Long
Island, i. 295, 300 ; at Harlem, N. Y., i.
310 ; at Staten Island, i. 325 : in East Ches-
ter, N.T., i. 326 ; at White Plains, N. Y,, i,
335 ; at Mount Washington, N. Y., i, 341: at
Fort Washington, N.Y.,i. 346; at Fort Leo

409 ; at Boundbrook, N. J., i. 416 ; at Dan-
bury, Conn.,i. 423, 441; at Sag Harbor, L. I.,
i, 442 ; at Hubbardton, Vt,, i. 472 ; at
Fort Schuyler, i. 477 ; at Bennington, Vt., i.
479 ; at Staten Island, N. Y., i. 482 ; at
Brandywine, i. 495 ; at Stillwater, i. 497,
611 ; at Germiintown, i. 604 ; at Forts CUn-
ton and Montgomery, i. 506 ; at Red Bank,
i. 514; at Fort Mifflin, i. 520; at White-
Marsh, i. 526 ; Battle of the Kegs, ii. 5 ; at
the Crooked Billet, ii. 41 ; at Tiverton, R. I.,
ii. 68- at Monmouth, ii. 66 ; atWyoming, it.
VI ; ^raval Battle, in L. I. Sound, ii. 84 ; at
Quaker Hill, R. I., ii, 88 ; at Westchester,
N. Y., ii. 94 ; at Tappan, N. Y., ii. 96 ; at
Cherry Valley, ii. 104 ; in Georgia, ii. 107 ;
at S.avannah, Ga,, ii. 115; at Woodbridge,
N. J., ii. 129; at Horse Neck, ii. 137; at
Briar Creek, ii. 138; at Mlddletown, N. J.,(
ii. 165 ; at Fort Lafayette, ii. 163 ; at Green-
wich, Conn., ii. 170 ; at Btono Ferry, ii. 170 ;
at Bedford, N. Y.,ii, 177; at New Haven,
ii. 180 ; at Fairfield, ii. 185, 189 ; at Stony
Point, 11. 192 ; at Powle's Hook, ii. 206; at
S.ivannah, ii. 221, 223 ; at Bnmswick,
N. J. ii. 234; at East Chester, N. Y., ii.
262 ; at Paramus, N. J., ii. 262, 265 ; at
Charleston, S. C.,ii, 269 ; at Ashley River,
e, C, ii. 272 ; .at Monk's Corner, ii. 273; at
Horse Neck, ii. 281 ; at Connecticut Farms,
N. .T„ ii. 285 ; .at Springfield, N. J., ii. 291 ;
at Bergen Block House, ii. 300; at Camden,
ii. 310 ; at King's Mountain, ii. 338 ; at Fort
St. George, ii. 344; at Coram, L. I., 11. 347 ;
at Cranetown, N, J,, ii, 348 ; at Ramsours,
Ilooky Mount, Hanging Rock, and Black
Stocks, ii. 351 ; the Cherokee Expedition, ii.
368 ; of the Cowpens, ii. 376 ; at Morrisania,
N. Y., 379 ; at Charles City Court House,
Va., ii. 385 ; at Mackie's Mills, Va., ii. 386 ;
at Lloyd's Neck, L. I., ii. 391 ; at Guilford
Court House, ii. 400, 403 ; Naval Battle in
the Chesapeake, ii. 409 ; at Hobkirk's Hill,
ii. 416 ; at Minisink, ii. 420 ; at the Croton
River, N. Y., ii. 427 ; at Ninety-Six, ii. 441 ;
at the Horse Shoe, S. C, ii. 448 ; at J.ames-
town, Va., ii. 450 ; at King's Bridge, N. Y.,
ii,453; at Tarrytown, N. Y,, ii, 459; oft
Barnegat, N. J., ii. 405; at Warwarsiug, ii.

7, 601,
I of tbe,

469 ; off the Chesapeake, ii. 417 ; at New

London, Conn., ii.479-, at Butaw Spriuga,

ii. 486 ; at Yorktown, U. 497, 601, 604 ; at

Gloucester, Va., ii.
"Battle of theKecB,'

British account of, il. 6.
Baum, Colonel, at the hattle of Bennington,

1. 479.
Baylor, Lieutenant-Colonel, ii. 96, 248.
Bayard, , saves the New York Records,

ii. 603.
Beale, Richard, refuses to take Lee's oath, i.

183.
Bearmore, Major, captured bythe Americans,

ii. 246.
Bears, , mallreated by the British at

New Haven, ii. 182.
" Bear Trap," anew one to be shown to the

British, ii. 504.
Eeatty, Captain of Md., killed

Hill, ii. 416.
Beokwith, George, Aide-de-camp to General

Knyphausen, ii. 308.
Bedford, N. Y., i. 301 ; Tarleton'a attack on,

ii. 177. „

Bedlock, James, Captain, tortured at Wyo-

Hohkirk't

ling,

.76.

Bcdlow's Island, in New Y'ork

Americans burn the houses on, i. !
Beelzebub, address to Arnold, ii. 32!
" Behman's Seven, " a prophecy,
"Belisarius, '■ ' " -r:. .

;'i\;L'y^

at Lexington, i. 90.
Virginia, i. 203.

', (Br.,) wounded

.,) wounded at i
Battle of, i. 479.

Bell, Joseph, a prise

Bollew, Capt.,(I5r.,:

Bellev, Patrick, Li

at Monmoutl

Ferry, ii. 171.
Bennington, Vt.
Benson, Egbert,
Benton, Captain, u. oou.
Bergen, N. J., i. 293. , .

Bergen County, N. J., Tories in, confined, i.

488 ; Wayne's attack on the British Block

House at, ii. 300.
Berkshire, Mass., mob at, i. 38.
Bernard, Gov. , assists at the celebration of St.

Yankee's Day in London, i. 232.
Berry, Mrs., "'' ' " """

Beverldge, -^Mr.,of 'Philadelphia, nc
i. 218.

action

Beverly, Mass., Privat

harbor of, i. 161, 168.
Bill Posting, i. 66.
Billcrica, Mass., citizen . ,,. ,

General Gage, on account of the mobbing of

Ditson, i. 67.
Bird, Colonel, (Br.,) at the attack on Peeks-

kiU, N. Y., i. 411.
"Black Act," the, i. 69; the,of New York, u.

Black, Andrew, of Boston, i. 81.

Black Stocks, battle of, ii. 361.

Bladen, N. C, people of, declare against Gov.

Martin, i. 108.
Blair, WiUiam, of Boston, i. 81.
Blanchard, , Alderman, i. 24.

" Blockade of Boston," a farce played a
Boston, circumstances attending it, i. 199.
Bloomticld Mrs., notice of, ii. 297.
Blount, Major, at Eutaw Springs, ii. 486.
Boerum, Simon, sets out for Congress, i. 76.
Bonamtown, N. J., Americans at, i. 406.

0^, and

Bonnel, Captain, (Br.,) his attack on Green-
wich, Conn., ii. 170.

Bonner, Lieutenant-Colonel, of Pa., killed at
Monmouth, ii. 68.

Boone, T., notice of, i. 611.

Borden, Colonel, Mrs., notice of, ii. 297.

Bordentown, N. J., British at, i. 366.

Borland, John, i. 40.

Browne, William, Colonel, notice of, i. 27.

Boston, Mass., causes of trouble :
turbance between some young
the soldiers, i. 14 ; Edes and 6i
i. 16 ; a royal mob in, i. 44; insolent behavior
of the British troops in, i. 53 ; barbarity of
the soldiers in, i. 54 ; Communication with,
stopped, i. 70 ; Great fire in King Street m,
i. 81 ; General Gage's treatment of the peo-
ple of, i. 82 ', Burgoyne, Clinton, and Howe
arrive at, i..83; British strengthen the for-
tifications around, i. 97 ; inhabitants of, dis-
tressed, i. 110 ; situation of the armies at, i.
Ill ; poetry to the women of, i. 140 ; Massa-
cre, Joseph Warren's oration on the, i. 167 ;
the Old North meeting house in, taken
down, i. 182 ; the blocka'de of, dramatized,
i. 199 ; Sir Henry Clinton sailed from, i.
200 : evacution of, i. 219 ; British account of
i-acuation of, i. 222 Bridge's

the

)f, i. 226

Declaration of Tiide-
271 ; the appearance of
ii. 11; Arnold in efEgy

Boston Massacre, Warren's oration
Boston Port Bill, i. 7
Botetourt, Va., lustr

to the Freehold-

Boudinot. E. Mrs., notice of, ii. 297.
Boulderson, Captain, (Br.,) i. 291.
Boundbrook, nT J., Skirmish at, i. 415 ; Bnt-

ish account of Americans at, covered with

vermin, i. 416; Colonel Simcoe destroys

boats at, ii. 233.
Burke, Stephen, a Tory, killed, ii. 125.
Bowen, Mrs., notice of, ii. 297.
Bowey Captain, killed at the battle of Long

Island, i. 297. „ ,. , .„ ^

Bowman, Captain, of North Carohna, killed

near Charleston, S. C, ii. 272.
Bowyer, John, i 48.

Eo\f.ir.l, M- , 1 ™i. ,._„ ,

BcMM ' 1 111' l''"f settling the difHcul-

,, 1 1 and Alneiic;i, 1.443.

B,, i Mid by the Br.tislj, at

T.t iri.l '. 'I 1- '.'iefeat, i 381

Braiiib n, John, at the light at Ward's House,

Brandywine, battle of the ; British account of

the, i. 495.
Brant, Joseph, at the massacre of Cherry

Valley, ii. 104. , . .^

Brasher, Abraham, notice of, i. 36; his wife
of the murder of Major Boyles, ii.

266.

h, Boston, i. 136.

Peyton

]; •' iii-l.urg, \ a., 1.89.

I']-,, i\," nut u-nholepair in

tl, 1. 400.

p.i. I I - Ii i| 1 >i . 1 , 1 97; British accounts

(if tilt, liittle ol, I 10-i ; signal puns fired

from the Eoxbury Church; during the, i.

103.
Breeze, Colonel, notice of, ii. 167.
Brereton, William Captain, (Br.,) wounded at

Monmouth, ii. 69. .

Brewer, Colonel, anecdote of, i. 190.
Brewer, James, a prisoner at Lexington, i. 90.

533

Brpwster, Cileli, Lieutenint, at Fort S

&L0igc, 11 340, at Coram, 347
Bujmen, Colonel, at the battle of StiUwitc

evacuation
ileclared at.

Biibtol, n I liombaiaul, i 14S , BiitiBli de

6ccntoi,ii 6S
BiietolXtLk, R I , Amcricm fiitificition on,

11 69

211,

C.nitK

bu-iT

;,'.S,loVii

Llizabcthtown, N J , notii

pnjeia foi George the Tliiid,
Lioilt , of Xeo Ihim, Miss ,

Buck shot, uoed by the .
Cutlds NLck, Comi , 1 •
Bucl, Piison, hib d lugbt

iii fo itbei'iiig ,

Bull, Go\ernoi of
fur Colonel HaMie, ii

Bullock, Archibald, at (
tiraphicil notice of, 1 :

Bunker Hill, Battle o
Hill, list of deid ■
British surgeon'-, acroi
Gage to be crtated B i
French alliance, II 7^

Burdat'sFerlj, N ^

Burgojne, Sir John (

!™th Caiolii

; Fairfield,
, intercedes

1 97, see Breed's
i A\oundcd, 1 99
tof 1 100 Genei il

conipaii

his Maid of the Oik-, Bmi Ton, and the
Heiress, i 176 , notac of, i 273 , appi oaches
Ticonderoga, his pompous pioclam ition, i
454, ans^ei to the piocUraation by an
Amencin ofiicer, l 456, "veisitied, l 459,
It Foit rdw lid murder of Jenny McCn i,
1 475 , dctichthCol Bium to Bennington, 1
479 , bis titles, uibtruUionB to Colonel B lum,
cnticisms on, i 4SS , " a mountebank ai d
robber of hen rooatb," 1 489, adMsedtoluok

tir, 1 497 defeated
I i-n'iti.,1 611; ancc-

Moigaii b ml 11 ' I \\ f l,i>rtcfrat

"Giasshnpp 1 r I ^

foi his e\ch I 1 I I J

GatCb', 11 30 L ^ 111 .,l:v:.i a

Tilth John Wilk. a 11 30 ' England's
Jack," in the game of all fours, ii 65 ; notice
of, 11 205 , celebrition of the surrender of,
ntPcek-kill N Y ii 606
Burk. I Imii 1 T<ii I Xorth's reply to, 11.247.

lull I 1 1- hou-e and pro-

1 itj , II 11^ of Fairfield, ii.
1S7

iuir, Captun, in the ittack on the Yankee

lull C ilniiel at the bie^e against Louisburg,

Bun.

1 - the British at

Mil

Buit 1

'l to death at the

b, Ml

1 R I , notice of, i.

150

1 nl I

ant Cnloncl,(Br,)atPowIe's

'llonk, 1

213

rule, Li.r

d, nnti

eof, 1 211 i(>%n 17.

I utltl,&

iKial,

atGuiltoid, ns] 11,400.

th, Ml

■\V\ oniing, 11 73, debcent on Cherry Valley,
11 104

Bullci Lieutenant, at the Battle of Long
I.lmJ, 1 297

Bntli.1, Ztbulon, Colonel, (see ^Yjoming,) ii.

B\ les, Mather, D D , charged -with being an
iiiemj to the United States , hit, trial ; bio-
gnphicil nonce of, 1 444

B\ram Budge, N Y , Britibh at, li 281.

B>rn'', , a tixgitheiei in Pennsylvania,

drenched with New bei) rum, i 49.

Connecticut Farms, li.
286 notice of, British account of, 290 ; re-
marks on the murder of, ii 305
C ildw ell, James, Rev , ii 434
Call, Judge, ii 439
Calogee, Indian town of, ii 373
Cambridge, Mass , American army at, i. 92 ;
address circulated in the camp at, i. 171 J
Burgoyne,

-, British Indian Agent,

ii. 318;
-ton, ii.
, 313 ; ii.

534

Campbell, Alexander, wonnded at Lesington,
1. 89.

Campbell, Archibald, killed at the fight at
Ward's House, i, 409.

Campbell, Aitliur, Colonel, Cherokee Ex-
pedition, ii. 368 ; message to the Cherokeus,
ii. 372.

Campbell, Brigadier General, (Br.,) at the
attack on Staten Island, i. 483.

Campbell, Charles, Captain, (Br.,) killed in
South Carolina, ii. 321.

Campbell, Lieutenant Colonel, (Br.,) i. 333 ;
at IJriBtol and Warren, R. 1., ii. 69.

Campbell, Lieutenant Colonel, (Am.,) killed
at Eutaw, ii. 490.

Campbell, Mungo, killed at the storming of
Forts Clinton and Montgomery, i. 508.

Campbell, William, Colonel, at King's Moun-
tain, ii. 338 ; at Guilford, ii. 400.

Campbell, Lord William, arrived at Charles-
ton, 8. C, i. 99 ; his flight, i. 160 ; on board
the Tamer in Charleston Harbor, i. 200 ;
steals seventy negroes, i. 201.

Canada, citizens of, seek matrimony as a pro-
tection against military service, i. 56 ; Guy
Carleton, issues orders to raise a regiment,
in, i. 79 ; people of, reluctant to enter the

Cann

manufactured in Massaohusetts,

Cape Ann, Mass., evacuated, harbor of forti-
fied, i. 159.
Cape Cod, Mass., whale boats from, for the
of the Americans, i. 112 ; mistaken for

Halifax by a Tory captain, i. 227,
Carey, Nathaniel, of Boston, i. 81.
Carden, John, Major, killed at Montreal

Carlen, Colonel, at Camden, ii. 269.

Carleton, Sir Guy, i. 105 ; his treatment of
Ethan Allen, i. 158 ; used ill by the Cana-
dians, i. 197 ; his kindness to the rebels, i.
454 ; " squire" to Bnrgoyne, i. 461 ; leaves

Carlisle, Lord,

ved at PhUadelphia,

Castleton, Vt., the A

to, i.

Caswell, Colonel, at the battle of Moore's
Creek, i. 209 ; notice of, ii. 310

Catlicavt, Andrew, Captain, (Br.,) wounded
at Monmouth, ii. 69.

Catholic Religion, to be established in Amer-
ica, ii. 148, 178.

Catlett, Captain, at Powle's Hook, ii. 209.

Catlin, , promoter of the Deerfield

(Mass.) instructions, ii. 440.

"Cato," articles against independence, over
the signature of, 1. 234.

Cats, hunted on Long Island, i. 178.

Caughanawaga Indians applied to, to assist

Chamberlain, Aaron, Dea, of Chelmsford,
Mass., wounded at battle of Lesington, i. 66.

Champney's Wh.irf, at Charleston, S. C, re-
ception of Governor Campbell at, i. 100.

Chandler, John, threatened by a mob, i. 40.

Chandler, • , Rev. Dr. sails for England,

i. 82.

Charles City, Court House, Va., skirmish at,
ii. 385.

Charles the Second, Whigs and Tories of the
time of, i. 194.

Charleston, S. C, tarring niifl f-,i'-r-'-'v~ nf, i.
90; garrisoned appcai:n < '■ "]'. i 1' I , I'mli-
fledby the Americans, i. I I i:i

icans at 1780, ii. 269'; .'""r! : ' i ^' ■ -> of

1780, ii. 2C9; capitulaUui, ol, ^74 , i,.l..ilj:t-

ants bury their silver phite in, ii. 274; the

eflect of Sir Henry Clinton's success at, ii.

275; patriotism of the women at.ii. 279;

discontent among tlio Hessians at, ii. 419 ;

state of the British army at, patriotic

women at, ii, 430, 625.
Charlestown, Mass., British troops at, i. 68;

Knovilon's visit to, i. 193.
Charlestown Neck, Mass., skirmish on, i.

119.
Charlotte, N, C, the people of, a " rebellious

set," ii. 362.
Charlton, Richard, missionary, biographical

notice of, i. 609.
Charming Peggy, the sloop, carries New

York petition to the King, i. 68.
Chastellux. ii, 475, 610.

Chatham, N. J., Dayton's brigade at, ii. 466.
Chavagnes, M, de, visits Harvard College, ii.

213.

■ake, nu\.u u.,.-^. ...---. uH' the, 1781,
■ Captain, at Bunker Hill, i. 93.

Uoii

605.

Chuis

Chickamogsa, Indian town of, ii. 371.
Chilhowee, Indian town of, ii. 370.
jwee, Indian town of, ii, 370.
ey, Brigadier General de, ii. 610.
Chote, Indian town of, ii, 369,
Christian, Gilbert, Major, notice of, ii. 370.
Church, Ben.iamin, i. 34,
Civil Usage Privateer, the owners of, present

John Hancock with a carriage, ii, 11,
Clare, Lord, his remarks on the importance

of taxing America, i. 271.

Clark, , Capt., at Bunker Hill, i. 98.

Clarke, Colonel, ii, 351.

Clarke, Colonel, Mrs,, notice of, ii. 297.

Clark, Doctor, of Reading, Conn., ridden on

a rail. 1,26.
Clark, Isaac, i. 41.
Clarke, Major, at Mercer's descent on Staten

Island, i. 325 ; at Powle's Hook, ii. 208.
Clark, Richard, of Salem, fled to Boston, i. 40.
Cleveland, Benjamin, Colonel, at King's

Mountain, ii, 339.
Cleveland, Brigadier, (Br.,) i. 450.
Clinton, George, titular (governor of New

York, ii. 449,

Clinton, Bii- ITcnry, appo'"*'?'! *" command in
America, i. 61 ; arrived at BOBtoD, i, 83 ; ar-
rived at New Yorli, i. 202 ; report of his ar-
rival at Cape Fear, N. C, i. 227; at the at-
tack onSuUivaiiB I,.laiid,i. 257; at the Battle
of Lone Islaij.l, i. 301 ; Inhabitants of New-

.63;

ape of, i. 609

'^^;o

hang the Coiigresa, ii. 03 ; at the Battle
Monmonlh, Ins narrow escape, ii. 69 ;
negro proclamation, ii. 176, 246 ; his soliloc
on the storming of Stony Point, ii. 200
" Moonshine General," ii. 233 ; address

; Corn

ledn

ofY

239,457,308.
Clinton, James, General, at Fort Montiromery

in 1777,1.607 ; directs the expedition against

the Onondaga Indians, ii. 163.
Cliveland, General, embarked for England, ii.

Clute, the Drummer, notice of, i. 254.

Co.atB, Ensign, notice of, 1. 297.

Cochran, Maior, at the expedition against the

Onondaga Indians, ii. 154.
Cockburn, Col., (Br.,) rclie%-e8 the Flathush

Tories, ii. 65.
Coggeshal, James, notice of, i. 2S8.
Cohass, CCoo.i), in New Hampshire, i. 79.
Coit, Captain, of Plymouth, captured British

ships ; lands hie prisoners on Plymouth

Rock, • '"

; death of,
ake the New

Colden, Cadw

York oath of allegiance, ii. 83.
Co!dcT,Sir Harry, at Philadelphia, ii. 63
Cold Weather in 1780. Famine in the Amer-
ican camps produced by, ii. 254; Hudson
River, frozen " ""

ii. 257 ;

teams drivoi from New York to Stateu
Island, on the ice, ii. 258.

Coles, Albert, carried into Connecticut hy the
rebels, ii. 172.

Colliday, William, collects lead in Philadel-
phia for the uso of the American army, 1.
240.

Colli(

180;

.190.

ollege, see King's College.

Colvill, Captain, at Cherry Valley, ii. 104.

Compo, Conn., British at, i. 433.

" Comus," poetical version of Tryon's attack
on Danbury, i. 428.

Conciliation, America will not be KuUed into,
ii. 38.

Concihatory Bills, the ; Eivington'a remarks
on ; sent into New Jersey, by G.ivernor
Tryon ; Americans will not swallow the, ii.
38 ; not founded upon any secret negotia-
tion, ii. 58.

Concord, Mass., Battle at, i. 68.

Condict, Mrs., notice of, ii. 297.

Confederation, notice of, ii. 890.

Congress, see Continental Congress.

Conklin, Capt.ain, (Br.,) sent to attack the
Americans, ii. 293.

Connecticut, orders the manufacture of gun-
powder, fcc, i. 13 ; fast-day in ; Tories ac-
tions in, i. 18 ; troops of, i. 92, 98 ; a prolifle
familyin, i. 139; the married regiment of,
i. 358 ; Tories in, i. 398 ; a parson of, com-
pelled to chew up paper money, i. 414;
lifer boy of, ii. 11 ; Sir George Collier, and
Governor Tryon's address to the people of,
ii. 190 ; Colonel De Lancey's expedition to,
Hubbel's descent on, ii. 414 ; people

dthdr;

,439.

286.
Connolly, John, Doctor, his plot, i. 192.
Conolly, Lieutenant Colonel, taken

Yorktown, ii. 602.
Constable, Doctor, (Br.,) i. 291.
" Constitutional Post Oilico, " Holt

Continental butcher, the, catching sturgeon,
ii. 278.

CoNTISENTiL CONGRESS, adopts the Suffolk
Resolutions, 1. 16 ; Articles of Association
of, i. 17 ; Article 10 of Association of, i. 19;
to be seized, i. 72 ; reviews the Philadelphia
military, i. 91 ; declaration of, on taking up
arms, read at Putnam's camp, i. 117 ; tory
remarks on, i. 197 ; Commissioners to treat
-with, on their way to America, i. 206 ; per-
fect masters of the resources of America :
reiccts the offers of France and Spain, i.
208 : an English view of the, i. 228 ; strikes
medals, i. 239 ; " a hornet's nest," i. 249 ;
" must not be endured any longer," i. 306 ;
loyal strictures on, i. 324 ; the way the mem-
bers of, plunder the people, i. 359 ; " desper-
ate," i. 368 ; frightened by the apiiroach of
British, i, 419 ; " Congress and Toddy," i.
429 ; the people of New York exasperated
with, i. 437 ; the negotiation of the Howes
with, i. 438 ; petitioned by the " out of door
rebels" of Philadelphia, i. 443 ; called " Rab-
scallion," i. 462; a sf|ual>ble in, i. 517;
meets at York, Pa., i. 518 ; the blank letter
sent to, ii. 16 ; determines " to retire beyond
the Mississippi," "

French King

eredi

1 Deane ar-
ortgaged America to the
7 ; reply to the Commis-

«1 1 o'f ingratitude and

1^ ■ ;\(sthefirst French
. :i , [>es the character
'.'9 ; resolve of, in
! . i . 101 ; Eivington's
hi;! Ill have been deliv-
? way they decide ques-
tions before them, ii. 145 ; requests the
Court of France, to take Washington out of
America, ii. 221 ; Chevalier de la Luzerne's
advice to, ii. 26'7 ; the members of, carry
■wax tapers at the funeral of Don Juan Mir-
ralles, ii. 268 ; the death and last will of, ii.
376 ; cabals in, ii. 417 ; declared bankrupt,
ii. 425 ; people of Connecticut, Massachu-
setts and New Hampshire, wish to with-
draw from the, ii. 440.
Continental Currency, i. 337 ; British encour-
age counterfeiting it, i. 440; Washington re-
turns it to Congress, ii. 15 ; Wasliington's
army supplies rags for making, ii. 16; the
causes of the depreciation of, ii. 422.
Contrecoeur, M. de, ii. 395.
Conway, General, i. 450 ; charged with de

predating Washington, ii. 106.
Cook, Rev. Mr., sails for England, i. 82.
Cook, Colonel, of the Peunsylvanians, i. 406.

Cook, Mrs nol p of u 297

Coombe, Rc\ Ml tl Philadelphia, i 405

Coopci.Gill 11 439

Cooper, ot Hampt n, Va , l 166

Cooper, iljles D U,i 8, sailed for England,

1 82 quuiLls with Dr Peters, 1 2b3
Cooper Saniui.1, D D , i 34, " leads the peo

pie by tlio nobc " i 43, 136 , at the f aiie

nl of Genei il Warren, i 229
Copps IIill, neai Boston, Masb , batteiies on

Coi

L I , Tallmadge's descert on, i 347
, LzLkitl, Lieut Col quotation from,
reiat ^L to the battle of Long Ibland , no

IHuiTiuth to 11 403 501 suiiendei
cf 11 607 iiidibi 1 cl 1 Sub, leport of

the ILgCOf -i lllOMI 1 1 In 1 tt 1

I, N J
oltol

Cunnmsham, Captain, of the privateer Lady

Wablm^ton i 246
Cuitii Ciptain (Br,)i 333
Cusatk tl c minder of u 494
Cushiiii, Iliomas of Mass , 1 76 , laid aside

aau-LkhS, 1 347
Cutler, Rc% Mr , of Ipswich, Mass , n 279

Dasworthy Mi-i of Trenton, ii 298

Dalkj Gitfoid 11 17

Dalrjmple Lie 1 t r Tr ) at tli ■

bittlc of Loi I, I 1

Daiibuij, Con i 423

I t^ lead for the use of the

in account of, n 279
I 111 luo oidcrs Governor

i i i_ biUcl the Colouita in rebtlhon,

Dish-nood committed to lail in New York, i

288
Davidson, General ii 351
Du 13, Benjamin ofBwton Mass l 81
Dans Dea , of Chtlm^toi 1 Maes , at

Leiington, i 66
Davis , of the Yankeu Hero privateer, i

Vrton, Mass ,
1 Inthinraik

527

LHdll

Co Hindis maiioi N Y,lumoied disaffcct

e i, rumor denied, i 22 , Mi "Washin^tu

M igazmes in, I 291,410
Cotton Lieut Col at Moore's Creek, i 21 1
Counterfeiters, at PeekskiU, N Y , enc

aged bj the Biitisb, i. 440.
Courley, Lieutenant, at the battle of Long

Island, i. 297.
Covenhoven, Judge, carried hlto New York

157.

, notice of, ii. 297.

the Bri

Crabtiee, Captain, of Ya., ii. 370.

Grafts, Lieut. Colonel, at the Nantasket ex-
pedition, i. 251 •, notice of, i. 463, 620.

Craig, Nathan, quotation from, i. 278.

Crcsap, Michael, Captain, his riflemen, i. 121;
died at New York, i. 152.

Cresap, Thomas, Col. of Virginia, i. 152.

Cromwell, Oliver, notice of, i. 261.

Crooked BiUet, fight at the, ii. 41.

Croser, John, Capt. (Br.,) half-shaved by
Vredenburgh, i. 146.

Croton River, N. Y., skirmish at, ii. 427.

Crown Point, capture of, i. 78, 91.

Crnger, Henry, notice of, ii. 25S.

Crump, Captain, at Powle's Hook, ii. 211.

Cunningham, keeper of the provost in New
York, ii. 17», 467.

Cunningham, Captain, wounded at James-
town, Va.,ii. 453.

Cunningham, Patrick, of the Carolina Regu-
lators, i. 166.

Cunningham, William, i. 30 ; notice of, i. 46.

r> Tin tiiiedandfeatheied, 1 90

I New York, 1 75 treatment

1 uception by the Kingof the

Vndrcsditamon n 122
1 irued fiom Fiance, n 43

li.iim .il II 4o.

Diaiboiu, Goural, at Ptillw.ater, i. 497.
Diaie, Mix, notice of, ii. 297.
Di liadce, Brint, phot for perjury, i. 405.
Diliill, OhMi, killed at Cherry Valley, ii.

105
Dc Bierve, Fiancis Souza, at Cherry Valley,

11 105
De BouiUe, Marquis, in the West Indies, ii.

109
Debow, , a Monmouth County fory, ii.

220.
" Decius," remarks respecting America, ii.

145.

De Brahm,

Decker's Fort, r
Declaration of I

Easton, Pa., a

.259.

DcL-rlield, Mass., " instructions of," ii 440.
De Grasse, Count, engages the British fleet

oft'tlio Che6apcalie,ii. 477; notice of, ii. 506,

509.
De Heistor, Philip, General, at Long Island,

i. 301 ; anecdote of, i. 351 ; his estimate of

the rebels, i. 445 ; died, i. 519 ; notice of, ii.

537

Dt'imar, Lieutenant De, ii. 454.

De Kalb, at the celebration of the alliance
with France, ii. 50 ; wounded nt the battle
of Camden, ii. 310 ; his death, 320.

De la Montagnie, widow, loyalists meet at the
house of, i. 34.

Delaucey, Jarace, Colonel, an American in-
former, i. 193 ; paints scenery for the
Theatre in New York, i. 3S5 ; his attack on
Horse Neck, ii. 281 ; exjicdition to Connec-
ticut, ii. 353 ; anecdote of, ii. 384,427 ; notice
of, ii. 94.

De Lancey, Jane, married, i. 146.

Delancey, Oliver, i. 193.

De Lancey, Peter, i. 145.

De Lancey, Susan, i, 145.

Delancey'a Farm, N. Y., British licentious-

Dennet, Captain, ii.
Dennis, Benjamin,
Dennison, Colonel,
Dent, Lieutenant, a
and, i. 297.

the 1

Dependants, views of the, i. 249.

Depeyster, Captain, (Br,,) at King's Mountain,
ii. 340.

De Puis, John, i. 24.

Derby, E. H., notice of, i. 27.

De Solis, history of the conquest of Mexico,
ii. 107.

D'Efitainc-, Count, arrives at Sandv Hook, ii.
70 ; at Eliode Island, ii. 77 ; at Boston, his
reception, ii. 88 ; misnn.li'rrit;indini;-lH-t\veen
him and Sullivan, ii. iv; . j ■- - i ii;ill on
board the Lantrin ■! ' ii : i. v. 101 -,
biographical noli^ ■ i : .. rives

delegates from ll, i ! Nova

Scotia Indians, on 1 -Inr l.in_.infl<.c, ii.
103 ; anecdote of. u. I'Oii , snnimon.->c8 .Savan-
nah to surrender, ii, 2^1 ; uutioe of, ii. 223.

Dev, Mrs., notice of, ii. 297.

Dey, William, i. 37,

Devant, Captain, killed at Eutaw, 1781, ii.
491.

Dick, Colonel, Mrs., notice of, ii. 297.

Dickinson, John, "Pennsvlvania Farmer," i,
13 ; declared a rebel, i. 60 ; notices of, i. 290 ;
ii. 145.

Dickiireon, Gen,, at Monmouth, ii. 66.

Dickinson, General, of New Jersey, notice of,
ii. 131, 620,

Dickinson, Major, of Va,, killed at Monmouth,
ii. 68,

Digby, Admiral, at New York, ii. 497.

Dillon, Joseph, married, i. 12.

Dinwiddle, Governor, i. SSI.

Disborough, Lieutenant, (Br.,) at Monmouth,
ii. 69.

Ditniass, Harrv, Captain, (Br.,) wounded at
Monmouth, if. 69.

Ditson, Thomas, of Billerica, Mas.s., tarred
and feathered in Boston, i, 44, 60. 67.

"Divide and liule. " America will not be
gulled, ii. 38,

Divorce, rumor of Washington's on account
ofthewar, i. 201.

Dix, Captain, ii. 380.

Dobb'8 Ferry,

Dogs, TVashington's army feeds

, N. T. British e

82; eon of, killed at Connecticut Farms,

Dorche8le'r,"M'ass,, attack on, i. 205 ; heights
of, taken by the Americans, i, 211 ; manner
of taking the, described by an English wri-
ter, i, 246,

Dorrance, Captain, ii. 381.

Douglass, Colonel, at the battle of White
Plains, 1. 335.

Douglass, Stair, (Br.,) commander of the Mon-

., Claptain

killed

at Crooked

■':„' ;■;'!

,nnd,"

Lcper,

i, 439.

in New York,

.\.:-Nii-.i.i

li:im lien
and Admi
Jtice of, ii,
n, (Br,,)

.478.

y, "Judie, Gcner.al,

al," ii. 23 ; death and

215.

elieves the Flatbush

Drew, Cap

Tories, ii. 65.
Duane, James, notice of, i. 36 ; sets out for

Congress, i, 76.
Dublin, Ireland, patriotism in, i. 202.
Dublin, N. C. people of declare against Gov.

Martin, i. 108.
Du Buy, Major, Hessian commander, ii, 407,
Dncbe. Jacob, D,D,, at the funeral of Pevton

Randolph,!, 154; embarked for EugUuul,

, killed a

•of, i

., „...y Valley

William, sentenced to
[9; at Pluckemin, N. J.,

Rev,, his account

the f

phical notice of, ii, 238.
Dulany, , of Maryland, au American

informer, i, 193.
Dunbar, Daniel, i, 41,

Dunliar, Jcese, mobbed at Plymouth, Mass,,

i 41

Dnnitord, Lieutenant, at Peckskill, N, Y, i.
411,

Duryee, Robert, Captain, tortured at Wyo-
ming, ii. 75.

Dutch, high and low, oppoeethepatriots, i. 30;
oppressed by Spain, i. 328; turn a dull ear
to the memorial of Sir Joseph Yorke, ii.
245 ; compared to wild boars, i. 367.

Diitchess County, N, Y. Port of entry at, i, 31,

Duval, Lieutenant, of Md., wounded at
Ninety Six, ii, 441,

Duxbury, Mass., mob at, i. 41.

Dyer, Eliphalet, at Now York, i. 75.

Bupborouc:li, Ticonderoga, and 1
N.Y.,i. hi

East Farms, Conn., festivity at, criticised, i

113.
East Hartford, Conn., female infantry at, i

128.
Easton, , Colonel, at Ticonderoga, i. 80 ;

takes General Prosoott, prisoner, i. 226.
Easton, Pa., declaration of Independence,

read at, i. 269.
East Eiver, N. T., olsstructcd by scuttled

vessels, i. 310.
Eaton, General, at Guilford, 1781, ii. 400.
EccleSLCaptain, ii. 465.
Eden, William, at Philadelphia, ii. 62.
Edes and Gills' account of the disturhance

Boston, i. 15.
Edgar, Major, killed at Brunswick, N. J.,

Edgar, Captain, at Fort St. George, ii. 345.
Edmonds, Captain, at Eutaw Springs, ii. 4S
Edmontnii, Ki.L'laiid, "Washington, burnt

lal, taken prisoner i
0 honors poor i

Electio

Eliot, Andrew Dr., of Boston, i. 113 ; re-opons
the Thursday Lectm-e, in Boston, 1776, i.
226.
Elizabeth, Queen, motto on her medal, struck
on the destruction of the Spanish Ai-mada,
i. 184.
Elizabeth River, England intends to establish
a port at, ii. 468.

at, i. 23; Stir-
. 135 ; false alarm
BuskirkiM visit to, ii. 265.
Elliot, James, Captain, killed at Campbell's

W.

Ellis, Co

Uvi

Elms, -

EmmV,-:.

137; n
Emereoii

EndifoU

'km!.

at New York, ii. 9.
,) anecdote of his
ii. 57 ; visits West-
at Horse Neck, ii.

ster of New Castle

S74.

of Leslie's expedi-
tion, 1. 28.

England, conciliatory measures proposed in,
i. 58 ; sympathy in, for the Americans, i.
147,169; compacts with the German pow-
ers for troops, i, 233; movements of the
ministry of, i. 236; rumors in, as to the sit-
uation of attairs in America,!. 288 ; intends
to destroy the northern, and make slaves of
the southern people, i. 441 ; Rigby, the
~ ■ • ■ igton, i.

Wash-
ington attempts a reconciliation between
America and, ii. 16 ; manufacturers in,
stamp their cloths with American Liber-
ty," ii. 17 ; the designs of the court of,
against the liberties of Britain, ii. 203 ; ly-
ng newspapers in, ii. 450; the projects of

.17.

.337.
Episcopalians, not in favor of independence,

i. 250.
Epi.^copacy, change in the church service of

Virginia, i. 206 ; chui-ches ia New York,

burnt, i. 291.
Erskiue, Robert F. E. 8., death of, ii. 332.
Erskine, Mrs., notice of, ii. 297.
Erskine, Sir William, anecdotes of, i. 141, ii.

258 ; at Danbm-y in 1777, i. 426.
Esopus, ii. 468.
Esquimaux, to be employed in subduing

America, i. 367.
Essex, Lord, compared to Washington, i. 196.
Europe, state of afl'airs in, 1780, ii. 208.
Eutaw Springs, battle of, ii. 486 ; British ac-
count of, ii. 491 -.the battle-field of, 492.
Evans, Captain, (Br.,) ii. 386.
Evans, Lieutenant, at the expedition against

the Onondaga Indians, ii. 165.
Ewer, Robert, notice of, ii. 16.
Ewing, Colonel, at the battle of Trenton, i.

Exc

r. Pa., Boe Wyo

vhat is?i. 243.

of- war, taken by the

Experiment, Br

EvbcrIin,'GvBbc;'rt, ii. 4C0.

Eyre, Maior", (Br.,) attempts to burn Tiver

ton, R. I., ii. 68, 69 ; at New London, Conn

1781, ii. 480.
Eyres, Captain, of the schooner Delaware, i

Faesch, Mrs., notice of, ii. 297.

Fagan, the Monmouth County Tory, ii. 125.

" Fairbattle," challenges the British to tight

" man to man," i. 308.
Fairfield, Conn., Tories in, i. 239; theburning

of, ii. 186 ; British account of, ii. 18S, 189.
Fairholme, John Stone, taken prisoner, i.

290.
Falmouth, Mass., destroyed by Capt. Mowatt,

i. 172.
Fanning, Colonel, (Br.,) at the burning of

Fairfield, Coim., ii. 189.
" Farmer A. Ws View," burnt in New

York, i. 12.
Fayerwe.ather, Thomas, of Boston, i. 81.
Feejee Islanders, to he employed in subduing

America, i. 367.
Fell, John, imprisoned at New Y'ork, i. 487.

Fell,

3 0f, i

Fellows, General, i

Felt. John, notice of, i. 28.

Female Infantry, at East Hartford, Conn., i.

Fenton, Lewis, aMonmouth County Tory, ii.

220.
Ferguson, Captain (Br.,) of the frigate Brune,

Fernandes,

land, i. 297.
Few, Colonel, (Br ) killed at Stony Point, i

Finances, state of the American, in 1780, u.

343.
Finch, Mr., killed by order of Lord Stirling,

i. 449.
Finch, Lieutenant, at the siege of Fort Mif-

539

Fitmau, Mrs., notice of, li. 297.

Flag of tho Uiiitud Stutfs, BiiL'gosted by tbo

fliiuntiiic: of a cat's tail, ii. 250.
FlaKg, M.ijor, killcJ by tbc British at Croton

E'lvcr, ii. 427, 428.
Flatbush, L. I., British at, i. 295 ; Jersey

Fletcher, Thomas, of the Carolina Regula-
tors, i. 160.

Fleury, Colonel, at tl^e capture of Stony
Point, ii. 193.

Fhnt, Lulie, married, i. 267, 3S9.

Floyd, William, sets out for C'onaress, i. 76.

Fluckcr, Tlium[is, .Sucrelary to (JwieralUago,
i. 94.

FoHtennv > ■.,, ! 1 ..; ', r. I ' . ■ T!;:i. i. 99.

Forlji-^, ' ' i i: ;^e plot

^^L'cretary of the An

Frances' tavern, New York, i. 107.

Francis, Colonel, at the battle of Hubbardton,
i. 472; killed, i. 473.

Fbanklin, Benjamin, arrives from London :
lines to, 1. 74 ; notice of, i. 193, 20S, 401 ; bis
proposals to the French court, i. 387 ; gives
the court of France permission to conquer
the Floridas, i. 389 ; qviotid, i. 441 ; presents
the Senator's Remembrancer to the public,
i. 448 ; his appearance in Paris : is manufac-
turing an electrical machine to disunite
kingdoms, i. 604 ; an " old fox," ii. 5 ; sends
a blank letter to Congress, ii. IS ; his recep-
tion at the French court, ii. 43 ; anecdote of,
ii. 82, 83 ; notices of, ii. '236, 467, 484 ; wor-
shipped by the French, Fragonard dedi-
cates a picture to the genius of, ii. 2S2 ;
account of the parents of, France claims the,
remarks on tho ancestry of, ii. 283.

Franklin, William, governor, an American
informer, i. 193, 290; notices of, i. 268, 333 ;
the treatment of considered by a Tory, ii.
198.

" Franklin " armed schooner takes British
p o\ s o 1 si ip 1 ■'46

Fi m luel Johu a eetoi of Doctor Frank

i. 6u0.
Fort Edward, N. T., Earthquake at, i.

Burgoyiie arrives at, i. 476.
Fort Griswold, action at, iu 1781, ii. 480.

attack

400;

Fort Johnson, S. C, an attack on suspected

ii. 161.
Fort Lafayette, taken by the British, ii. 103

British account of the capture of, ii. 164
Fort Lee, N. Y., taken by the British, i. ooO
Fort Mifllin, siege of, i. 620.
Fort Mn!i'_..i,i, r\, X, Y., taken by the Bi t

Fort Mni, :. ■ .■•:. li. 274.

Fort Sriii, - ~ . . .... I .177.

FortSl;ni>'. 'S, i1j:,i :-!, i. J77.

Fort St. It, or-c, reduction of, ii. 344 ; British

Fort Trumbull, evacuated by the Americans
ii. 480.

Fort Washington, N. Y., " all quiet at," i 337
taken by the British, 345; itsreduction 348
bravery of the Americans at, i. 34S tl e

Fosdyke, Captain, c

Hudson River, i. 2

Foster, , Capta

lauds firo ships on
; the battle of Nod

Fowler, Jonathan, Judge, his recantation i

175.
Fox, Charles, opposes Lord North, ii. 245
Fox, Captain, ii. 381.
Foxcroft, John, committed to jail in New

Fije Jamei Col i l->^
F et r iidden 01 a la 1 at New York i 288
Fu gler Frai c s the herm t accou t of i 8
Fuima Mooi Mis n t e ot 97

Fuser Colon 1 (Br )atbunbuij Gi i 108

amati excepti g

m urn foi the 1 id 1 1 t 14 Is

army comjaied to saus i. s a d I lo^\ out
of the pan i lal si I dlromBost i Ma&s
1 lol lobe reatei Lord Lex ngton Baron
of Bunker Hill i 1 u notice of 108, li8

540

207 ; accuses the Americans of fighting like
Savages, i. 182 ; lines on his departure from
Boston, i. 197 ; assists at the celebration of
St. Yankee's Day in London, i. 232.
Gaine, Hugh, Printer, i. 148; " tlie greatest

liar,"

iiiteafor, i.422: his i

Gardii
126.

H, Washington forbids

! island, plundered by the British, i.

Gardner, Isaac, Justice, of Brookline, Mass.,

wounded, Lexington,!. 66.
Gardner, Thomas," Col. wounded at Bnnkei

mil, i. 99 ; died, i. 106 ; notice of, i. 176.
Gardner, William, Major, (Br..) wounded at

Garret, Enpign, taken prisoner at Cherry Val-
ley, ii. 106.

Garth, General, at tlio Irarning of Fairfield,
Conn. ii. 1S>7 . at jSVw Haven, 1779, ii. 184.

Gates, Boll, notice of, 1.612.

Gates, Horatio, Gen., ai'pointed to Washing-
ton's stafl; i. 96 ; letter to his wife giving an
account of Burg.iviie's surrender to his
"Yankees," i. 611; a dr.im.itist, ii. SO; at
Monmouth, ii. 69 ; notices of, i. 110, ii. 12,
248,339; defeated at C.imdcn, ii. 310; lti\-
ington's account of the fiiglit of, from Cam-
den, ii. 312.

Gayton, Admiral, notice .if, i 07.';.

George the Thn.l -r m ' ) mnlished at
New York, -' '

fur,

•Jan

ton-making ill ., i ]

Brown and, i. otj4 , .i r-t n^n uit-l, i. 391 ; in-
justice, ohstinacj , .md lullj nuUcd in, i. 395 ;
" will sell Hanover and all his estate, before
he will desert the Tories," i. 626 ; his speech
annotated, ii. 13; the estate of "George
Whelps," to be sold, ii. 35 ; called the
" Royal Brute," ii. 403 ; notice of, ii. 261.

Georgetown, Pa., i. 49.

Georgia, sentiments of, i. 20 ; Tories in, "

104;

tish i

. 101)

its objects, 109 ; appoints delegates to tlie
Congress, i. 118.

Gerai-d, M., at the French Court with tlie
American Ambassadors, ii. 44; arrives at
Philadelphia, ii. 70 ; reception of, by Con-
eress, ii. SO ; notice of, li. 94 ; speech de-
fivered at Philadelphia, by the Chaplain of,
ii. 178.

Gerish, Colonel, broken for cow.ardice, i. 129.

Germaine, George, Lord, his plan to reduce
the Colonies, i. 201 ; Sir Henry Clinton's
letter to, on thecaptnre of Powle's Hook,ii.
213 ; notice of, ii. 364, 467.

Germans, predicted number in America, in
1800, i. 146 ; the superstitions of, i. 373.

Germantown, Mass., British fire upon, i. 84.

Germantown, Pa., British account of the Bat-
tle of, i. 604.

Gibbs, Caleb, quotation from, i. 254.

Gilbert, Colonel, of Freetown, Mass., mobbed,
i. 38.

Gilbert, , maltreated at New Haven,

Conn., ii. 1S3.
Gilbertson, John, a Monmouth County Tory,

ii. 126.
Gist, Colonel, ii. 94.

Clentworth, Lieutenant, notice of, ii. 266.
Gloucester, Mass., Linrtz.cV iitt.nk cm. i. 124.
Gloucester, Va., aft'.u - i' 1 I''' \\ -tcil,

Goldsmith, Lnutenaut, (Br.,) wounded at
Bristol, R. I., li. 60.

Goldstream, , i. 07.

" Good Hope," prison ship at New York, Ii.

Monmouth, ii. Oy.

Gorliani, . Mr. i. 142.

Gould, Colonel, (Br.,) his connection with the

execution of Hayiie, ii. 474.
Gould, Fitch, quotation from, i. 141.
Government, Dunmore's treatise on the art of,

i. 173.
Governor's Island, N. Y., evacuated by the

Americans, i. 304.
Graham, Colonel, at Tarrytown, ii. 56.
Ciraham, Major, (Br.,) at Savannah, ii. 221.

Gr-mt, Major Greneral, at the battle of Long
Island, i. 303 ; at Boundbiook, N. J. i. 415.
Grant, Major, (Br.,) liilled, i. 508.
Grape Island, Mass., ekirmish :
Gr.ay, General, (Br.,) * " "

Battle

Adn

.605.

:ist I

Gr.ay, Edward, of Boston, i. 81.

Gre.it Bridge, Va., — description of; battie
at, i. 179 ; humanity of the American soldiers
at, i. 181 ; Americans encamp at, i. 203.

Great Britain, the clemency of, pointed out, i.

Greene, Christopher, Colonel, defeats the
Hessians at Reil Bank, i. 614.

Greene,Christopber, Colonel , mortally wound
ed at Croton River, ii. 427 ; account of the
death, ii. 428.

Greene, General, at Trenton, i. 365 ; at the
celebration of the French alliance, ii. 61 ;
his orders issued on the discovery of Ar-
nold's treason, ii. 324; at Guilford, ii. 402;
at Hohkirk's Hill, ii. 416 ; at Ninety Six, ii.
441 ; his great military ability, ii. 462 ;
threatens to retaiiate for the execution of
Havne, ii.468 ; his proclamation in reference
to the execution of Hayne, ii. 474 ; at Eutaw
Springs, ii. 486.

Greene, General, notice of, ii. 332, 426, 471, 472,
492, 602, 606, 624.

Green Turtles, a cargo of, taken from the

British, i. 153.
Greenwich, Conn., Bonnel's attack on, ii. 170.
"Grey Itfai^^ot," the pamphlet, i. 16.
Griffin, Colonel, at Staten Island, i. 325.
GritUn, Samuel, aid to General Lee, i. 96.
Grim, David, his accouut of the great fire at

New York, i. 313.
Grimball, Thomas, Captain, i. 466.
Grimke, Colonel, ii. 116.
Groton Point, Conn., British land at, in 17S1,

ii. 479.
GroTer's HiJl, Conn., American Fort on, ii.

185.
Guest, Major, at the battle of Long Island, i.

297.
Guilford, Conn., Americans rendezvous at, i.

442.

. 400. 471,

Gui<

vallis'

of the

I of,i

Hahersham, James, of Gcorgi.a, died, i. 132.
Habersham, Major, taken prisoner in Georgia,

ii. 116.
Haldiman, — , Gen., at Lexington, i. 69 ;

Halifax, N. S., "Whigs in, i

■CSS, i. 119.

? British Generals on
Vrorrica, 1. 83.

. Iiisworkontho
'--'*'■'> ; Lady "Wash-

r the North Carolina
. of the 641h (Br.,) at

Hamlin, —
Hammoib

Hampton,

Springs, u. 4S6.
Hampton, Va., shippin
Hascocic, Jobs, i. 34 ;

Lk-ut(

L'olouel, at Euta

by British soldie
!. 60 ; received ,n
to, on reviewing l
i. 91 ; excepted' i

an English notice of, i. 346 ; Adams moves
his expulsion from Congress 347; "King
Hancock," i. 475 ; leaves Congress, i. 516 ;
British account of his speech, 517 ; his
flight from Philadelphia, i. 518 ; notices of,
i. 620, 417 ; difference with Samuel Ad-
ams, ii. 7; appearance in public, ii. 11;
gives a dinner, ii. 88 ; a " king," and " an
insulTerable piece of bravery," ii. 93; gives
a ball, appearance of the women at,
ii. 102.
iicock, privateer, captures the Reward,

, Colonel, at the battle of Princc-

i. 279.
Hand, —

Hand, Mrs., notice of, ii. 297.

Handy, Captain, at Powlo's Hook, ii. 208.

Hanger, George, ii. 276.

Hanging Rock, battle of, ii. 361.

Hankey, Ensign, at Fort Mifflin, i. 521.

Hanna, Mrs., notice of, ii. 297.

Hanoverians, to be taken 'into British pay,

i. 144.
Hanson, Captain, killed at Johnson Hall,

ii. 284.
Haradd, Captain, taken prisoner, i. 290.
Harcourt, Colonel, (Br.,) takes General Lee,

i. 360 ; compared -with Colonel Barton,

i. 469.
Hardenbrook, Theophilus, ridden on a rail,

Harper, Robert, ii. 439.

Harris, Isaac, of Pittsgrove, Pa., advertises a

runaway, i. 401.
Harris, Colonel, notice of, ii. 116, 159.
Harrison, Captain, of West River, Md., ii.

413.
Harrison, John, i. 314.

Hart, , Colonel, ii. 41.

Hart, Isaac, killed at Fort St. George, ii. 34S.
Hartford, Conn., the sale of rum prohibited

in, ii. 149.
Harvard College, American redoubts near, i.

Ill; notice of, i. 513; Chevalier de la

Luzerne at, ii. 213.
Hastings, Jonathan, i. 127.
Hatch, Colonel, at Long Island, i. 298.
Haifield, , Captain, of "White Plains,

N. Y., i. 63.
Hathaway, Ebeuezer, in the Simsbury Mines,

Ilawke,' Samuel, quotation from, i. 230.

Hay, Colonel, of Pa., at Stony Point, ii. 194.

Uayne, Isaac, Colonel, capture of, ii. 447 ;
execution of, ii. 467 ; General Greene's pro-
clara.ationon, ii. 474; a " CaroUna Exile,"
on the execution of, ii. 481 ; notice of, ii.

Hayiies, Josiah, Dea, of Sudbury, Mass.,

wounded at Lexington, i. 66.
Hazlet, Colonel, killed at Princeton, i. 371.
Head Dresses, size of, ii. 34.
Head, John, of Boston, i. SI.
Heard. , Colonel, goes atory hunting, i.

1S9. ■
II .ird,Gcn., at the battle of Monmouth, ii.

evacuation of Boston, i.220; r;
his br.avcry doubted, i. 252. 1,1-
signsthe declaration of indev : -
Lord North's turtles presented

542

Ht-ceman, Elbert, notice of, i. 615.
Hellgate, N. Y., British encamp at, i. 304.
Hempstead, L. 1., an assemblyman frightened

by the Yankees at, i. 178 ; tory hunters at,

i. 198.
Henderson, Colonel, at Stono Ferry, ii. 171.
Henderson, Lieutenant Colonci, his bravery

at Charleston, S. C, 1780, li. 274 ; at Eutaw

Springs, ii. 486.
Henderson, Robert, killed at Cherry Valley,

ii. 105.
Henly, , of Boston Mass., wounded at

Quaker Hill, ii. 90.
Heuricks, Captain, (Br.,) ii. 454.
" Henricus, " on the state of the British army

in 1778. ii. 86; criticism on, ii. 37.
Henry, Patrick, i. 170.
Herkimer, GeneraKii. 72 ; at Fort Stanwix, i,

477.
Heme, Major, wounded at Charleston, S. C,

prisoner at East Clieeter, N. Y.,
Hottteld, Smith, ii. 137, 255.
Hewlet, William, captures Joshua Huddy, ii.

Hickey, Thomas, a conspirator, hung, i. 255,

256.
Hickling, Captain, of Boston, Mass., the

bravery of at Cherry Valley, ii. 105.
Hicks, Whitehead, appointed Judge of Su-
preme Court of New York, i. 256.
Hilat, Cornet, (Br.,) ii. 253.
Hildrcth, Mrs., notice of, ii. 297.
Hill, Alexander, of Boston, i. 81.
Hill, John, i. 37 ; afl'air at the liberty pole in

New York, i. 46.
Hill, Thomas, the cruelty of at Wyoming,

ii. 76.
Hills, Lieutenant-Colonel, (Br.,) notice of, i.

473.
Hillsborough County, N. C, loyalty of the

inhabitants of, ii. 275.
Hilton, John, (Br.,) wounded at Lexington, i.

89.
Hines, Francis, notice of, ii. 437.
Hines, William, of the (general Gates priva-
teer ; death of, ii. 437.
Hiwasse, Indian town of, ii. 370.
Hobkirk's Hill, battle of, ii. 415.
Hodadon, Samuel, his child, Samuel Adams,

i. 169.
Hogan, General, at Lampriere's Ferry, ii. 276.
Hog Island, Mass., battle of, i. 85.
Holden, Thomas, killed at (Jherry Valley, ii.

105.
Holland, agrees to supply the Americans with

a loan, ii. 134.
Hollingehead, Captain, (Br.,)
HoUowell, Captr-" i- 'i- i=i

cutta, i. 317.
Holly, William, ii. 439.
Holmes, Abiel, quotation from, i.
Holmes, Colonel, re

Middletown, N. J., ii. 11)6.
Home manufactures, i. 267.
Hood, Sir Samuel, Rear Admiral, ii. 478.
~ ~" ' ~ •.,) at the attack on Peekskill,

the British

Hoj,e^Mj

Hopkins, Simeon, killed at Cherry Valley.

ithol

Hopper, John, the hotise of, burned by the

British, ii. 266.
Hopper, Jonathan, Captain, murdered, ii.

Hopperstown, N. J., British at, ii. 262.

prove fatal to Sir Peter Parker's Breeches,
i. 434.

Horry, Colonel, at Charleston, S. C, ii. 276.

Horemanden, Daniel, refuses to take the oath
of allegiance to Congress, i. 289 ; approves
the address of the New Y'ork Tories, to
Governor Tryou, i. 323 ; notice of, ii. 64 ;
death of, ii. 95.

Horse Neck, Tryon's descent on, ii. 137 ; De-
lancy's attack on, 1780, ii. 282.

Horse Racing at Rye Flats, N. Y., i. 49 ; as-
sociation of Congress on, i. 49.

" Hortentius" on the prospects of England ;
aid from Russi.a, &c.,i. 623; on clothing the
army, i. 627 ; proposals for the exchange of
Burgoyne, ii. 12 ; annotation
speech, ii. 19.

Housen, Captain, (Br.,) ii. 343.

Houston, John, at Congress, l.

Hoveden, , Captain, (

Bucks Co., Pa., ii. 24.

Howard, James, of Acton, Mass., at Lexing-
ton, i. 66.

Howard, John, account of Leslie's expedition,
i. 29.

Howard, Lieutenant-Colonel, (Br.,) at Pa-
ramus, N. J., 1780, ii. 262.

Howard, Lieutenant-Colonel, (-\m.,) at Gnil-
ford, ii. 402 ; at Eutaw Springs, ii. 486.

Howe, Captain, (Br.,) of the Glasg.iw, en-
counters three " ragamuiiin privateers," 1.
344.

Howe, Lord Viscount George, notice of, i. 394.

Howe, Richard, Earl, appointe.l commis-
sioner to treat with Congress, i. 206 ; " Fair-
battle's" letter to, i. 308 ; sends his seamen
to extinguish the fire at New York, i. 311 ;
his "Jig," i. 350; a " soggy man," i. 396;
notice of, i. 408 ; his despatches to Con-
gress, i. 438.

Howe, Robert, (General,) abandons Norfolk,
Va., i. 202 ; subdues the revolt of the New-
Jersey lino, ii. 374 ; at Tarrytown, N. Y.,
1781, ii. 459.

Howe, Gen. Sir William, appointed to com-
mand in America, i. 61 ; at Boston, i. 83,
212; landed at Cliarlestown, i. 97; his re-
mark about the Battle of Breed's Hill,i. 99 ;
inetiioiency of his troops, i. 119 ; notice of,
i. 151,408; orders the destruction of the Old
North Meeting-House in Boston, i. 182; hia
proclamation relating to woollen goods, i.
221 ; " Hon. William Howe, Esq.," i. 272 ;
orders horses to be killed and salted for the
use of his army, i. 294 ; his letters explained,
i. 332 ; George Selwyn's account of his action
at Fort Washington, N. Y., i. 349 ; the Pro-
clamation of General and Lord, i. 652 ; an
answer to it, 1. 353 ; discharges the prisoners
at New York, i. 374 ; a " weak man," i. 396 ;
runs away fromBonamtown, N. J.,i. 406 ; his
despatches to Congress, i. 438 ; asked " how
long it will take him to conquer America?"
1. 439 ; his letter to Lord George Germaine
on the affairs in NewJersey, i. 449 ; versifled,
i. 452 ; advertised, as a runaway debtor,!.
463 ; at Brandywine, i. 495 ; enters Phila-
delphia, i. 600 ; attempts to capture Henry
Lee, ii. 10 ; at Princeton to give hia troops
a little healthy exercise, ii. 33 ; his miscel-
laneous works to be pubUshed, ii. 34 ; at

Phlladelpliia, 177S; his bravery unques-
tioned, ii. 36 -, Miscliinnza in honor of, ii. 52 ;
strictures on his course in America, ii. 143 ;
places Cornwallia above the reach of for-

Hubba'rd,' William, of Stamford, Conn., i. 19.
Hubbardton, Vt., Battle of, i. 472.
HubbeI,Cai)tain,(Br.,) .action at Lloyd's Nock,

ii. 391 ; (k-.=cent on Connecticut, ii. 414.
Hubley, M.ijor, at skirmish at Mount Wash-
ington, N. Y., i. 343.
Huddy, Joshua, C:iptain, taken prisoner by

the British, ii. 322 ; makes his escape, ii. 323.
Hudson, Charles, Captain, commander of the

Richmond, takes Fort Moultrie, 1780, ii. 274.
Hudson River, battle on the, i. 292; Asia,

man-of-war, rouglily liandlt-d on the, i. 310 ;

frozen over, horses and slei^jhs pass over it

on the ice, ii. 255.
Hnirer, Benjamin, death of, ii. 160.
Ilneer. Isaac. Ci.lonel, i.l65; at Stono Ferry,

Hon

1777,

li-.,noticeof, ii. 297.
' i . .1 , ( Br.) at East Chester, N.

of Wallingford, Conn., drummed
IP, i. 315.

, expedition against

0.

thesufferingsof the

ers, i, 318.

ter to Gould on the
on, i. 6S.

it, (Br.,) wounded on the
. 499.

Cliaplain to General Max-
130.
,. I., General Clinton at, ii.

iiel, at Saugiituck Bridge in

lull Il.K-K

out of C:
lull, William, Lieutenant
Morrisania,_ N. Y., ii. 3S

Yankee privateer prisoi

inu'ton, ra., see Wyoming, ii. 71.

Huntington, Samuel, (li)veriiur of Connecti-
cut, ii. 239 ; turned C.illiolic, and sprinkled
himself with lioly water, ii. 268.

Hurlbert, Captain, his activity at Tarrytown,
N. Y., ii. 459.

Hutchings, Joseph, Colonel, taken prisoner
by Lord Dunmore, i. 171.

Hutchinson, Eliakim, of Boston, i. 81.

Untchinson, Thomas, LL. D. and American
inforuii r, i. 192 : assists at the celebration
of St. Y.inkL.-V Day in London, i. 232.

Hyder Ali, his buocess in the East Indies, ii.

Hyrn'e, Major, at Eutaw, 1781, ii. 491.

Ilehester, Lord, father of Lady Harriett Ack-
land, i. 611.

Independence, reasons for, i. 172, 2.34; advocat-
ed 1)y a Virginian, i. 204 ; Virginia votes for,

, pro_
Quakers and Episcopalian
i. 250 ; Thoughts on by a " Republican," i.
261; dccl.irrd by Cnniies^, i 'JiiJ . lines on,
i. 276 . .1 r , , I - 1 .- nil, 1.

279;P,iii r. , to

Putnai'ii" ' i!'!l'm

Amen, in , i - ,_ i- irv of

celebrated it lln-tmi. M.i-. i 4n.l at I'bila-
delphia ; lU-sian band taken at Princeton,
play at the celebration, i 464 ; at Charles-
ton, S. C. i. 405 ; Samuel Ad.ims' dchire for
it, ii. 144 ; carried by the kibor of Samnel
Adams and the casting vote of John Dick-
inson, ii. 145.

Indians, Canahnatvaea tribe, applied to by lh3
British, i. 79 ; Guy'Johnson's attempts with
i. 105 ; St. Francis, at Cambridge, Mass., i.
127; see Cameron, i. 150 ; Judge Drayton's
treaty with the Cherokees, i. 166 ; anecdote
of an Indian, at the battle of Oneida Creek,
1777, i. 486 ; at Wyoming, ii. 72 ; the Po-
nobscots and Nova Scotia Indians, visit
Count D'Estaing, ii. 103 ; expedition against
the Onondagas, ii. 153; General Sullivan
and Colonel Brodhead's expedition against
the six nations, ii. 216, 217 ; Campbell's

ink, ii. 420 ; attack Warwarsing, ii. 468.

mgersoU David, driven from his ho~me, i. 38.

Ingraham, Timothy, see Bristol, R. I.

Innes, Lieutenant Colonel, at WilUamsburg,
Va.,ii. 464.

Iiinmau, Captain, (Br.,) ii. 293. "

" Impartial," the manumission of slaves con-
sidered by, ii. 362.

Ireton, Henry, compared with Gen. Putnam,

Irvine, Doctor, at Powle's Hook, ii. 211.
Irvine, General, attacked the British at Chest-
nut Hill, i. 526.

Jackson, of Mass., his regiment takes

possession of Philadelphia, ii. 66.
Jackson, Charles, notice of, ii. 129.
Jackson, Lieutenant, i. ^07
Jackson, Thomas, Lie

Jacksonborough Bridge, Qa., British destroy

the, il. 159.
Jacques, Colonel, notice of, ii. 257.
Jagcrs, The, an account of, i. 233 ; the cruelty

of the, ii. 188.
Jamaica, L. I., tory hunters at, i. 198.
James, Colonel, at Sullivan's Island, i. 258.
James' Island, British encamped on, ii. 161,

163, 269.
James, proceedings on the arrival of the ship,

„ ^v=>-^, Colonel, ii. 325.

Jamestown, Va., Skirmish near,ii. 450.

Japanese, to be employed in subduing Ame-
rica, i. 367.

Jarvis, Isaac, bravery of, at Fairfield, ii. 188.

Jay, John, i. 36 ; easily baited by Washington,
i. 445 ; Andre's dream about, ii. 123.

Jefterson, Thomas, arrived at Congress, i.
100 ; notice of, ii. 368.

Jemraason, Major, at Valley Forge,

Jenkins, Squire, killed at Lackawt

t Fairfield,

Conn. ii. 187.
Jericho, Mass. i. 481.

Jessnpborough, N. Y., earthquake at, i. 112.
Julin's Island, British encamped on, ii. 161,

163.
Johnson, Captain, (Br.,) killed, i. 124.
Johnson, Captain of the Y'ankee Privateer,

i. 318.
Johnson, Doctor, assists at the celebration of

St. Yankee's Day in London, i. 232.
Johnson, Guy, Colonel, his interest with the

Indians, i. 105 ; arrived at New York, i. 290.
Johnson, Peter, takes Ethan Allen at Mont-
real, i. 224.
Johnson, Sir John, his wife seized by order of

Gener.al Schuyler, i. 290 ; at Johnson Hall ;

burns the hotuses of the whigs, ii 284.

JobDBton Peter, ii. 352.

Johnstone, Governor, appointed Commiseion-

er to Congress, i. 206, 207 ; at Philadelphiu,

ii. 62.
"Jonathans," amuse themselves at Fairfield,

Conn., ii. 189; " feel very bold," ii. 191 ;

unable to defend themselves, ii. 282.
Jonea, Gener.ll, (Br.,) at New Tork, ii. 161.
Jones, Mrs., notice of, ii. 297.
Jones, Noble, Wiraberly, at Congress, i. 119.
Jones, Paul, celebrates "the ratiflcation of the

confederation, ii. 390.
Jones, , Narrative of 'Westminster

Massacre, i. 52.
Jumonville, M. de, at Fort Necessity, ■Wash-
ington accused of murdering, ii. 396.
Junto 9oug, ri, i. 134.
Justice, and Keveiige, considered, ii. 111.

, Felij

^ the battle of Moore's Creek,

Kemiys, Landing Va., Americans at, i. 203.

Kennedy, Archibald, i. 290.

Kennedy, , a tory, plundered of his

shoe buckles, by the British, ii. 182.

Kennedy, Lieutenant, (Br.,) wounded at Mon-
mouth, ii. 09.

Keppel, , Captain of the Vestal, cap-
tures Henry Laurens, ii. 353.

Kergu, M. de, of the French Navy, killed,
ii. 412.

Kerr, N.itbnn, Rev., anecdote of, ii. 291.

Keyes, Ciipt., nt Kiiowlton's attack on
(jharlestMwn, Mass., i. 193.

Kindorliuok, N. Y., tarring and feathering at,
i. 141.

" King's Amorifnn Regiment," the, at Fair-
field, 1779. ii. 189.

King's r.riiltre. X. Y., skirmish near, i. 341;
fight at, ii. 453.

Kingsbury, Eleazer, Capt., of Needham,
Mass., wounded at Lexington, i. 66.

King's College, professorship of Divinity, in-
stituted in, by the King, i. 11 ; noticoof,i. 82.

King's Evil, vs. People's Evil, i. 175.

King's Mountain, situation of, battle of, ii.
33S ; another account of, ii. 340, 351.

Kingston, Mass., mob at, i. 41.

Kingston, N. Y., burnt by General Vanghnn,
Tory account of,_ i. 610 ; attacked by Torus
and In(

Kinzic'8 Point, Conn., the British at, ii. 186.
Kipp, James, Lieutenant. (Br.O ii. 253, 353,
4-27 ; at Delancey's attack on Horse Neck,

Kirk, General, i. 177.

Kirkland, Moses, a toryand deserter, ii. 108.
Kirkwood, Captain, at Eutaw Springs, ii.4S7.
Kittens, Washington's army feeds on, i. 330.
Kittle, John, killed at 'Warwarsing, ii. 469.
Knap, , Rev., taken prisoner at Horse

Neck, ii. 2S2.
Knapp, Cnptain, (Br.,) notice of, ii. 253;

attacks Widow Griffin, ii. 427.
Kniffin, Jonathan, his daughter murdered by

the rebels, i. 418.

rbiladelphia, the

iiiMUiiiiH, 'I lioinaa, Capt., at the battle of
Breed's Uill, i. 97 ; excursion to Charles-
town, Mass., i. 193; anecdote of, i. 199 ;
killed,! ■ ',' "'

;nry. General, at 1

Pluckemin, N. J.,
ii. 130 ; discovers Arnold's treachery, ii. 325 ;
notices of, ii. 476, 611.

Knox, Mrs. General, ii. 131.

Knyphausen, General, at the battle of
Brandywlne, i. 496 ; at New York, ii 151 •
at Monmouth, ii. 67 ; wounded at German-
town, ii. 82; attack on Connecticut Farms,
N. J., ii. 285 ; makes a descent on Spring-
field, N. J., ii. 291; his instructions to
Ensign Moody, ii. 307 ; 'Washington playing
the game of " goose" with, ii. 341.

Kuyper, Mrs., notice of, ii. 297.

, Pa.,

^■Wyo

' Lady 'Washington," , .^., .. _-„.

M Fayette, General, at the celebration of the
alliance with France, ii. 60 ; .at Monmouth,
ii. 69; at Boston, ii. 88; challenges General
Sullivan, tory notice of, ii. 93 ; anecdote of,
refuses to go to the Theatre, ii 100 ; dis-

of,

Cornwallis at Jamestown, ^' i

kindness to the soldiers, li. 45J

Fabius," ii. 485.

Lake George, N. T., earthquake

Lake, Lieutenant-(Jolonel, (Br.

129.

'.Tohn, a

1 1780, i

i. 129 ; at

Dbliged to
276.

18 ; spies
3 supplied with from

;ident of Con-
.me of -Wash-
. N J.,ii.l31;
Philadelphia,

of State,
Meredith

Charles!
:hcswith

n, s. c.,:

ded, ii. 168; a
in, S. C, 1780,
I party of Brlt-

Laurons, John, <

sketch of aft'ai

by, ii. 258; ski

ish near Charl

Yorktown, ii. _- .
Lauzun, Duke de Gloucester, Va.; surrenders

to, ii. 608
Lawrence, Captain, caiJtures Ensign Moody,

Lawrence, Oliver, Major, anecdote of, ii. 384.

Lawi-ence, Tliomas, died, i. 17.

Lawson General, at Guilford, i. 781, ii. 400.

Learned, Ebenezer, Col., enters Hostou on the
evacu.ation by the British, i. 220.

Learj-, , Capt., escorts Geu. Lee into

New York, i. 202.

Lecbmere, Kicliolas, rcfusea to tako General
Lee's oath, i. 1S3.

LcL-bntere's Point, Cambridge, Mass., skir-
mish on, i. 167.

LeCorne, St. Luke, to conduct the British ex-
pedition from Canada, i. 80.

LeCruel, Father, President of the inquisition

149.

Fort Griswold,

Ledvard, Cohtn
in"l7Sl, ii. 480.

Lee, Charles, appointed to "Washington's
staff, i. %; corre-ponils with General Bur-
g.iyne, i. 108 ; sets o\it for tbo army at
Cambridse, Mass., 1. nil . not-.ces of, i. 120,
201; ii. 02,100, at X. V. ^ i T<:i;

his oath administer il ■ l^Ji

administered tu tin l i l -^;

Moore's work on til, • 1 1 < .u-

rived at N ew York . 1 - n ■' ' _ J , iii
effigy, i. 277 ; his nlu.iuity, l. 2:'2 ; t.ik.-n
prisoner, i. 300; British rejoice, oOl, in* Utter

to Capt. Ii y,after his capture, i.SOl ; Mr.

Eigby oilers to box, 1.442; at Philadelphia,
i. 401; at Monmouth, ii. 66 ; Andre's dre.ain
about, ii. 123 ; fights a duel with Mr. Clark-
snn, ii. 219 ; tampered with, ii. 3S9; a trai-
tor, ii. 447.

Lee, Ilenry, Major, at the skirmish at East
Chester, N. Y., i.S2G ; notice- of, ii. 7, 471 ;
attempt to -n - : - "\V ,-' i _ i ' i '- I.i

battle of, i. 77 ; prisoners, exchange of the,
i. 89 ; General Gage's account of the battle
of, i.95.

Liberty, a sufferer in the cause of, i. 33; the
prospect of, animates a people, i. 214 ; the
essence of, 1,237.

Liberty Pole in New York, quarrel at,
i. 37, 45.

Liberty Tree, cut down in Boston,!. 131; ac-
cident at the falling of,i. 135.

Lillington, Colonel, at the battle of Moore's
Creek, i. 209.

Lincoln, Benjamin, Gen., at Heath's attempt
on Fort Independence, i. 400; at Bound-
brook, N. J., i. 415 ; notice of, ii. 158 ; at
Slono Fi-rrv, li. 171 , orders the execution
ofC-! r' ' . ■■ ;i-|l , at Charleston, ii.
27.'i . < I ' -h troops at the Bur-

reli.h , ,1 ,-,0S, 511.

Lind:. , I ■ I'uiik Hill, N. J., j.

Llndzee, C.q

Gloucester, Mass., i. 124.
Lippi_tt, Christupher, Col., at Newport, K.

101.
Jttle, John, ii. 157.
■ Litilo Phil," sings a new song at the dinn-

to Washington in New York, 1. 254.
Littleton, Lord, notice of, i 207.
Little Tuskeego, Indian to\™ of, ii. 370.
LiTingt-ton , Henry, Colonel, at attack on Qu

T T ■ ' r.i- • 1, wound!

Lee, Lieut l

Lee, Richart

Mmister, i

Lee, Thoma

1 gets mto t

Leu'gett, Alderman, of New York, il. 246.

Leighton, Baldwin, Captain, (Br.,) woimded
at Monmouth, ii. 69.

LeMolno, Capt., (Br.,) killed, i. 124.

Leonard, Abiel, D.D., Chaplain to Putn.am's
regiment ; addresses the army at Boston,
i. 117; preaches on the evacuation of Bos-
ton, i. 223.

Le Sensible, the French frigate, brought the
news of the alliance between America and
France, 11, 48.

Leslie, Ciilonel, expedition to Balcm, Mass,

. 27 ; Ma

ISO;

Prln

Leslie, Maior-General, (Br.,) at Guilford,

ii. 404.
Lewis, Andrew, i. 48, 242.
Lewis, Francis, notice of, i. 30; sets out for

Congress, i. 76.
Lewis, Ichabodjii. 456.

Lewis, Jonathan, of Fairfield, Conn., ii. 188.
Lexington, M.iss., battle of, i. 63 ; Mansfield

killed at, i. 07; Ilimnewell's account of, i.6.S;

anecdote ..f a -i.ldier in the battle of, i. 71 ;

reception of the news of, at ■\Villiamsbnrff,

Va., i. 75 ; Eoute of thenewsof, from Wa-

tcrto\vn to Baltimore, 1. 75 ; effect of the
Vol. II.— 35

I.i. h I 'i^ I'j 1- ) . ', - . u for Con»

LhiiiB-ston, PhiUp, John, fled to New York,
i. 290.

Livingston, "William, orders militia for the
protection of Staten Island, i. 205 ; easily
baited by "Washington, i. 4 r. l," >.ii':;i--;
see "Hortentius ;" prn].. - ' ■ i ex-
change of Burgoyne, 11. 1_ i
the King's speech, ii. Iv !:
the Americana will reCLi.'' 1- .i j i : --.-t-
nnce, ii. 24 ; qitotation from, u. 6u ; uVn-
dre's dream about, ii. 123 ; British attempt
to carry him into New York ; the heroism
of his daughters, ii. 135 ; his " Mercuries,"
ii. 264 ; notice of his wife, ii. 297 ; notice of,
ii. 434; proclamation for John Moody, il.
466 ; a reward offered for his ears and nose,
" . 467.

Lloyd's Neck, Captain Hubbel's descent c

Loudon, a mob in, ii. 17.

Long Island, British land on, i. 295 ; battle of,
■ "95,298; "Washington's ejaculation at, i.

„ a 'bull-'flght „.., ... „„.

Long Inland Sound, frozen over, ii. 257.

Long, Thomas, notice of, ii. 3S3.

Looilv and Elms, celebration at the tavern

of, in New York, ii. 9.
Loring, .Joshua, commissary of prisonera at

New York, U. 110.

546

Loudon, Deacon, Editor of the Now Yoik

P icktt, iiives a eirbled account of i eqiub

We in Consress, i 617
Loudon, Loi I notice of, i 215
Louk tlic bixticntli, birthdiy of, cekbiatcd

at Pliilidclphn, 11 213
Lo-ull, JlnH^, in Boston iiil, i 110, notice

of 1 J7o, c\Lhangcd forGo\ernor SkLnic,

I m" I- nc, n itice of, i 36, 75

: Lli/ibcthtown, u 137
Nisits Uirv-iid Colkgc, :

Lyman, (jeneial, at the Biege of Ha\anuah,

310
Lyttloton, Go\ernor of Jamaica, u 206

>iiii^, LLD, Vndi e'a dream (

McI c 1 1, C ipt , (Br ,) killed at Mooro's Creek,

1 200, 210
Mil Miclncl, Captain, (Br ,) 11 348
Mi,'i\\ Colonel, notice of, i 331 , surrenders

Foit WisliinKton,] 34o
" M II 1 ot the O ikb," The, Burgoj ne'a plaj , i

176
M iin Lii utemnt, of the Yankee Hero pma

tecl.i 2%
Mutlu 1 Luutenant Colonel, notice of, n

Ob <k Lth of, 11 230
Milm xlj C )1 mcl, u Stono Ferry, ii 171 , at

Eutiw •^puncs, 11 487
Mamaroneck, N. Y., go\ernmcnt sloop burnt

at, i. 174 ■, skirmish al,ii. 253.
Mansfield, , a breeches-maker of Boston

killed at Lexington, i. 67.
Mansin, Henry, executed at Lancaster, Pa.,

ii. 29.
MansfloUl, Lord, notice of, i. 211, 408.

[ass., pe ■ '

ok after

of, I

Lexln

Marbletown, N. Y., i. 2i.

Marbois, M. de, at Harvard College, ii. 213.

Marcy, Samuel, -wounded at Lexington, i. 89.

Marion, General, taken by Cornwallis, at Cam-
den, ii. 321 ; notice of, ii. 427; at Eutaw
Springs, ii. 486.

Markoe, Captain, eBcorts_Gciieral 'Washingtc

Marriage, a protection against serving in the

militia, i. 66.
Married Regiment, the, of Connecticut, i. 358.

Maish niniel,Mri

Miiblihtll Masx , Toiic«in, I 16

Miiston, Nitliiiiicl.i 132

Maitin, Lphiiim, Colonel, of Sussex, N J,

1 182
Mutin, Colonel, at Punk Hill, N J , i 406
Mutm, Col.MiU Mil, notice of, 11 297
Mutinuo, Flinch tioops aiiiM at ii 23

Mil

621

Vl Co

M ihon, Jolin, quoted, l 171

Mis-in, LietLiiant Colonel, superintends the

f itihcationcf Cape Vnn, Mass.i 169
Misonic cekbrationin Philidelphn, 11 113;

Bi itibh celebi ation of St John's day at New

York, song sung at, n 443
M ishachuscttcneis, Daniel Leonard author of,

1 38
M istachusetts. Provincial Congresiof, John

Hancock chosen President ot, i 18, itsolu

tionsof, Ftbruary,1775 i 25 fa-t da\ in,i

63 , bla\eiy of the milltilot, I 67 Piomh
of derlinCK toac <dt toBur
tic il 1 « 11 ( lunlLLe,

> Occasional Ne-^spaper," t

n, t W aching

to I no , sur

piiHilli the JtrbLjimn ii 03 " a Tory
■n ho ought not to be pel mitted to live," u
168

Mitthewfl, General, (Br ,)at Boundbrook, N
J., 1.416.

Mather, Samuel, i. 159.

Mauduit, , Mr., assists at the celebration

of St. Yankee's Day in London, i. 232.

Mawhood, Colonel, at Princeton, i. 372.

MaxAvell, "William, General, at Punkhill, N.
J., i. 405; notices of, i. 450, ii. 136; com-
mences the Battle of Brandywine, i. 495 ; at
the Battle of Monmouth, ii. 66.

Maxwell, Major, ii. 380.

Jllayhew, Mrs., notice of, ii. 297.

McCallister, Lieutenant, captures the British
flag, at Powle's Hook, ii. 212.

McClane, Captain, intrepidity of, at Powle's
Hook, ii. 211.

McClurg, , Doctor, attended Jefferson,

i. 100.

McCrea, Jenny, murder of, i. 475 ; account
of, 476.

McDonald, Donald, Gener.al, (Br. ,) at the Bat-
tle of Moore's Creek, J. 210 ; notices of, i.

McDougall, Alexander, his conversation with

547

[<.tk kill N "1

Clnili^ ColDiicl

M L Dd LRUtLmiit Coloi cl (Bi ) EOtice of,

11 to It ttuilfoiJ II 404
Mel Iici=;on, John Ciptaiii, killed at Quebec,

mm Mt-s let ion It 1
et, MnjJl,(Bi )i 333
1, Pi uicib, quotation fi
r Huijh Gcncril dii

527

Stiten

1 13 death 1 371 hig
of Biitibhbia^erj i 372
Inm hiB friendbhip for

1 tibli It 1 450
mil of 11 S-2
diclau 1 -11 1 el 1 60

Licuttmnt at Tirnto

1 1 of C 11 5lll n

uti knnSulh\in8 Ibli
1 d Hicks pi inters
l1 h Vd\ertibei i 43

the Boston

■. , -nounatd

11 im, Masb ,

II 11,1 99
1 6 I 451
11 420 , sit

GeoiEje, Capt , of Concoid, Slas''
ided It Lexington i 66
n s Dti Tu 11 ordcis five copies of
] t to be Bent abioid

the fiineial of, i

tl e 11 52

lIjncricAc Mil i it tbocxcbtn i f

Lexington 1 11^ 1 1 r« in the Funch

war ^^nh Gci cnl Putmm i 89 buriii 1
by the Jcieevmen, u 03 , foitiiies Sa\ inuah
Ga,u 221

"M 11 k s Corner Ttrleton eurpiises the Amer

Mini outli 1 1 in from hiB his loyalty
c It 1 1 357 . outiagcb of tl c Tones in, u
l.j littk cf 11 b6 heit of the -neather
on the d ij of 07, Bntibb retreat fiom, 69
Biiti-h iCLOUi t ot tl e battle of,li 69 , a cat
f uid on the 1 ittle field of,iu70

il lit leiu C ipt iin (oramander of British
-h pKiitlibUi 1

1 97
killed at New

leached fabt daj

Mu t Ulen attempts the

M oh Til I t aFBaB6imteGo\ernor

Lninc^toii cipturedij Captain Laurence
KniphiuscnBii btruct onsto ii 307 Wil
ham LiMncbt ns pioclamat on foi, ii 466
his countei luclanntion 467

ilooie, Daniel, Captain of the Admiial Rod

the

■\r or Jiincb Tl e Gei at the battle of

Mjore^Cleek i -On
Ml ic 1 Cieek N C notice of battle of i
uo

t3beeraplo5ed in subduing Imeiiea,

Cant , of \ a arm ed at Cambridge,
1 124
1 " CharU ' account of, defeats the

lliisof Comw Ml- 11 450
Moii^an, Daniel Gel cial hifl iiflenien at

Stillwatci, I 417 at ^Vhitcmarbh i 526,

It the CowpeiiB, ii 375, 624 notice of ii

473
Moicm, Geoige MrB notice of ii 297
Mams Ciptain cimmandcr of the British

bli p Bi btol et the attack on Sulln an s Isl

and 1 258
iloii a, John, appointed Lieutenant.Colonel

ot the bjal AmeiicanB, I 2S9
Morii^, Lenifl, Generil, "interrogates" the

Tnrie= 11 172
Moi 1 11, Ge 1 cr il Mr= notice of, ii 297
Moi riB, S 11 ih a Quaker minister of Philadel

phn died l 166
Moriisaiii, N T, Parson's expedition

aeainst li 379
Moiiison Rc-v Doctor, of Boston i 136
M It t I 1 jtice of, his oiation on Gen

fori

M n

4 t
Til le

1 I c jinmander of the French

.4 I
Ldwaid, at the capture of Ticonderoga,

Rebecca Mrs patriDtismof ii 427
lie ■« llliam notices of, l 165 277, ll
It Bliek Swamp, ii 15S at Bacon
. ,, le ,1 -30
M iitlljll} ^ J Furgler the hermit, bur

I unt ■» ashirciton ^ T , ekirmish at, i

341
lewatt ,Ciptiin, (Br ,) destrojsFal

month ilabi i 172

Muil Ammunition, ii. 393.

Mugford, Captain, captures a British provi-

Bion Bliip, engaties tlio Britipli oil" Pudding

Gut Point, his death, i. 24i, 246.

Muirson, , at Fort St. George, ii. 347.

Mulgrave, Lord, eaplui-e.-j a Dutch vessel,

with friends 1 ■ \: M :. ,i " L.^ard, i. 492.
Mullryne, (.'"' ' ■ ii 231,

Murr.ay, — ' -m ] l;iitland, Mass.,

MuHgrave, Colonel, (Br.,) at the hattle of

Germaiitown, i. 604.
Mjer, AVendal, executed at Lancaster, Pa.,

fSSth regiment, i. 15.

hv " Impartial," ii. '■■■:- > -a ut

advocated, 366.
Neal, Captain, killed al I'r !;>i1m,,. i ;;T1.
Neal, Colonel, ii. 169.
Neil, Rohort, notice of, ii. SOT.
Neil, Eohert, Jr., taken prisoner at Newark,

N. J.,ii.265.
Neill, Cornet, at Powlc's Hook, ii. 208.
Neilson, Colonel, Mrs., notice of, ii. 297.
Nelson, Ch.arles, Captain, his prison ship at

New York, ii. 127, 220.
Nelson, General, of Virginia, ii. 366.
Nelson, Thomas, Governor, ii. 611.
Nesbitt, Lieut. -Col., British array, notice of,

the Americans, i. 240.

Newark, N. J., British excursion to, ii. 265.

Newbern, N. C, Gov. Martin's magazine
discovered at, i. 140.

New Castle, Delaware, fast day sermons at, i.
118.

Now Castle, on Piscataqua River, first Amer-
ican ship of warl'uilt at, i. 373.

Newell, Mrs., notice of, ii. 207.

New England, deletratrs to Congress from.

yiiiix, 1. 11 ,\

themenof, 1
no ministerial troops in, i. 252; (^reneral
Howe's victory over the " long faces " of, i.
308 ; New York burnt liy the " incendiaries"
of, i. 321 ; first ship of war built in, i. 373 ;
vigor of in supplying troops, ii. 28; insub-
ordination of the troops of, at Fishkill,
N. Y.,ii.56; General SulllTan, one of the
heroes of, ii. 91.

New England Repub

New n.anipshire, troops of, at Cambridgei
Mass., i. 92 ; asks advice from Congress, i.
159 ; disaflectiou of the people of towards
Congress, ii. 440.

New Hanover, N. C, people of, declare
against Gov. Martin, i. 108.

New Haven, Tryon's descent on, ii. 180;
notice of, the burning of, ii. 199.

New Jersey, approves the course of tho
Congress, i. 21 ; people of, take possession
of the Treasury,!. 83; martial spirit of tho
people of Somerset in, i. 188; the " hoys" of
hunting Tories, i. 198 ; anecdote of a woman
of, 1. 270; Bamuel Tucker, appointed
Governor of, i. 288 j depredations of the
British troops in, i. 378 ; bravery of a
woman of, i. 409 ; ravages of the British in,
i. 419 ; movements of the British in, i. 448;
Howe's letter to Lord Germaine on the
affairs in, i. 449 ; disaflectod citizens of, i.
487; "some" of the people of tired of the
rebellion, ii. 17; Governor Tryon distrib-
utes tho conciliatory bills in, ii. 38 ; the
beauty of the women of, ii. 134 ; Colonel
Van Buskirk's excursion into, ii. 255 ; sen-
timents of a lady in, ii. 293 ; sea-fight olf tho
coast of, ii. 298 ; Captain Thomas Ward's
descent on. ii. 348 ; revolt of the troops of,
374; "the Back Bhad" at, ii. 434

New London, Conn., i. 192 ; Arnold's descent

Newman Wingate, captain of the Hancock
privateer seizes Lord North's turtles, i. 279.

Milford, Conn., Arnold

cfflgy i

Newport, R. I., outrage of Capt., Ayseough
at, i. 114; Leo- administers an oath to the
Tories of, i. 183 ; Declaration of Indepen-
dence road at, i. 275 ; British take possession
of, i. 362 ; Tories in, i. 363 ; Earl Percy,
commander at, i. 397; British evacuate, ii.
233.

New Rochelle, N. Y., trial about a horse race,
held at, i. 49 ; skirmish at, ii. 253.

Newspapers, strictures on tho Tory, i. 435.

Newtown, Conn. i. 240.

New Utrecht, L. I., i. 295.

" Now York Free Holder," tho, i. S.

New York, loyal, 1. 32 ; Loyalists meet In, i.
34 ; Union Flagof, i. 35 ; meetingat the Ex-
change in, Gordon's account of, 1. 36; quar-
rel at the liberty pole, i. 37 ; petitions of to
eflect a reconciliation, i. 53 ; bill posting in,
i. 65 ; Petition of tho Assembly of, to the
King, i. 53 ; Association of the inhabitants

of the American troops at, i.
106 ; Military Club of, i. 107 ; Provincial
Congress of, disapprove an address to Gov.
Tryon, i. 107 ; the Asia man of war, fires
on, i. 129; General Lee enters; Clinton,
(Br.,) arrives at, i. 202 ; a " funny" scene in
the harbor of, i. 211 ; (jov. Tryon's message
to the people of, 1776, i. 210 ; the first collec-
tor of the port of, i. 230 ; Tories in conspire
to kill Washington, i. 255 ; declaration of
independence, read at, i. 270 ; Wasliiiigton
threatens to burn ; John Morin Scutt, ap-
pointed Governor of : Donald McLean, The-

ophilus Hardenbrook, Fueter, and Rem

Rax)elje, ridden on rails in, i. 288; Episco-
pal churches, burnt in, i. 291; attack on,
expected, i. 293 ; terrific thunder storm in,
i. 294; situ.ation of the armies at, i. 309;
British enter the city of, i. 310 ; British ac-

549

! British ill, i. 419; the people of, c

pcrated against the Congress ; who they are,
= 437 ; the martial spirit of the inhaWtants
■ - " • birth

. 519 ;
<layat,ii.

the Qi
Tories of, firm in their op-_

' oath c

ii. 83;

uatk

¥:^:

f, tit out the
19 ; treatment
ic American prisoners at Nelson's pris-
hip, ii. 1"27 ; an inquisition in, ii. 149 ;
use of the Eni,'lish language prohibited
i. 149 ; government at,^tired of the to-
, ii. 152'^; "Washington meditates an at-
; on, ii. 237 ; rejoicings on the receipt of

news of Gates' defeat at Camden, ii.
; situation of aflairs in, 317 ; the Black

of : Tories and ^Vl^i?a in, ii. 438 ; fos-
ses and bull-figlits in, ii. 440 ; Rivington's
indition of," people of, very "miserable,"
48 ; inhabitants of the city of, address
ice 'William Henry, ii. 498 ; Eecorda of,

oath of alle-
3of the;~CadwalladerColden refused
to take it, ii. S3.
Nichols, Mr., Rev., of "Waterbury, Conn., ac-

of the Eevolu-

Ninety-Six, account of the siege of, ii. 441,

ii. 525.
Nixon, General, near Fort Edward, i. 474
Noailles, Viscount de, at Torktown, Va.,

ii. 608.
Noddle's Island, Mass., battle of, i. 85 ; eflfect

of thebattle at, i. 87 ; Gage's account of,

criticised, i. 170.
Nones, Moses, loyalists take refuge in the

house of, during the siego of Savannah,

ii. 227.

135; Lord Dunmore'i

troops land at, i. 143 ; burnt, i. 189 ; Ad

dress to the Virginians on the destructioi

of, i. 191.

North Carolina, Go

, Charles S

1, killed

North, Lord, determined to carry his point
with the Colonies, i. 11 ; notices of, i. 135,
408 ; his house torn down by a mob, ii. 17 ;
opposed by Charles Fox, ii. 245.

Norwalk, Conn., persons cross the Sound on

ilip ic(i frnm ii ^?

from, ii. 257.
kull, Peter, advertisement of, i
Tories, i. 422.

Ogden, Brigade, Ma.ior, killed, ii. 136.
Ogden, Colonel, at Staten Island, 1777, 1. 485,
Ogden, Mrs., notice of, ii. 297.
Oglethoi-p, General, notice of, ii. 228.
G'Hara, Brigadier-General, at Guilford, ii. 404 ,

acts for Cornwallis, at the surrender of

Yorktown,ii. 508, 616.
O'Hara, James, ii. 466.
Okauastota, the Cherokee Chief, ii. 373.
" Old Lies Renewed," i. 233.
Old South Meeting house inBoston,i.l68,ii.l48.
Oliver, Andrew, i. 192.

Onondagas, expedition against the, ii. 153.
Orang Outangs, British troops compared to

i. 308.
Orne, Colonel, of Marblehead, Mass., i. 29.
Orslow, people of, declare against Gov. Mar-

i.443.

Paekolet, the Americans at, ii. 361.

I'aine, Robert Treat, declared a rebel, i. 60;

at New York. i. 75.
Paine, Thomas, his Common Sense, i. 208,

209, i. 350 ; Washington indebted to, i. 385.
Palm.r, Lieutenant, .at Stony Point, ii. 194.
Paper Money, a parcel wanted, i. 337 ; called

" rag money," i. 399 ; what it was used for

in 1777, i. 417.
Paramus,N. J,, British descent on, ii. 262.
Pardelow, MJ., of Fairlield, Conn., i. 240.
Parker, Doctor, of Staten Island, N. T.,

Parker,
.487.

'disaffected Jerscyman,

Parker, Josiah, Lieut., captures Joshua Bud-
dy, ii. 322.

Parker, Sir Peter, defeated at Sullivan's Isl-
and, S. C, i. 257 ; i. 345 ; at Rhode Island,
i. 362; notice of, i.277, 390.

Parks, Edward, quotation from, i.92.

" Parliamentary Youngster," anecdote of a.

ania.N. Y.,i.-. .

Pasteboard Dollars, refused by the rebels ; a

Connecticut parson obliged to chew up a par-

Patterson, Major-General, (Br.
with Washington, i. 272 ; notices oi, i. lioa,
ii. 254 ; captures Fort Lafayette, ii. 164.

Paltisoii, Mrs., notice of, ii. 297.

Paulding, John, captures Major Andre, ii. 326.

Paumier, Mniigo, Lieutenant, (Br.,) at Mon-
mouth, ii. -

, Col.,

Paxton, Pa., ii. 620.

Payson, Phillips, D.D,, notice of, i. 66.

Peale, Charles, Wilson, paints portraits of
Washington, ii. 120.

Pearls, Richard, notice of, ii. 109.

Peck, John, a prisoner at Lexington, i. 90,

Peden, Alexander, his prophecy, i. 407.

Peekskill, N. Y., i. 22; attack on, 1777, i.
409 ; British account of, i. 411 ; celebration
at, of the surrender of Burgoyne, ii. 605.

Pendleton, Edmmid, notice of, i. 180, 242.

Pennsylvania, Bucks Co., Patriots, i. 76.

Pennsylvania Riflemen, expertness of, i. 111.

Pennsylvania, troops of, at the battle of Mount
Washington. N. Y., i. 342 ; citizens of, who
have joined General Howe, i. 368 ; revolt of
the troops of, ii. 373 ; Thomas Wharton, jr.,
inaugurated President of, i. 400 ; Tories of,

v^

of Pa t Mou t TVa )
i
tof

L pi Ih the o g n of all del g t d p
9
1 pi s E 1 ve sus the K ug 8 E 1

P 1 1 II S ■n' II am 1 8 cstat s 41

I o of 4 2
[ 1 C 1 1 (B ) k lied 1 4

;> J E 1 I X u t t B t

67 n d to of 67 1 t tj t I

tton 9o a e dot f 141 340 ot

of 16 n lote f C 1 1 \ d i
0 at tl 0 b ttlo f L 111 0

h ho s h d 1 ot ft )4J t ^ i

EI 36 390 1 si bode I 1 ud

434

r th V

P t S

39 qu

511

Ph Ips Capta n tv ounded at Stony Po nt
194

Ph Ips Noah t the c ptu e of T condo og
80

Ph 1 delph th ole t p ty n 13 n I
t a of \ to 1 at t

me t ng 3 'ij J ot aj p t t

87 b t I -sv 1 by G

W sh 11 t 1 n sof

13 11 1 I lows ik.

t k ut ^0 D

It I 69

B 1 1 t r f

417 tl 1

B t h 41
4 9 tl \

f tl f 11 t the b ttl of Bu ker

ri E 1 1 Id aoftoMassahu tt

P 1 Co g s 37

1 1 n 1 tb add a to Co nwalUs b\

4J3
ri tt J Iff 4 9

PI k n ^ J el 1 at on of the mu

J 1 1 P h All nee at 10
Plu 1 t I t t V y of at tl 0 b ttl

fl HI 7

Plj 1 I II 9 to TV t 1 th

r k d 1 J a mob

41 1

Plj 1

Plju 11 O t lands B t h

Po t J T G f, p 1 mat on ve 8 lied

93 1 th B I omen 140 Tb

Ane nLi dt n 146 IheD lemma

147 tl I ng Ame an Lojal t
169 &a d 8 Gl o t p ophet c b Had
16 1 8 o the d 1 a tu e of Ge Ga
197 tF 11 03 tleKngs o R gu

la 214 1 n t % t t ng

he d 1 g t t f nde

pend n e 4 4 E)

gr m on S 1 I 11

nslsl nd 6

The P u 1 t (j I S49

Epg m tl 11 k t

45 Bu > s p 1 t II

469 A f 1 1 11 f V

2 Ln B nt nd d to 1 t II 1

t tl M 8 h anz 5 -V El no

the 11 su e of tl e B t 1 C n n

78 E J 1 t on to Bl de I la d 91
L 8 to ^^ I ntto o h 1 1 to

defen of B t sh Comn
t tho apture of Gene al

. N 1 A
31
Colonel ofM 88

tak

Cou tj M

of iladl
39

C lonel 9 at Euta

Si 486

P e 8 I I d N H Amenoana bu Id

f t t 136
P n C 1 1 (B ) n t of 7
P g t "^ P b t t tl e I ttl of B ecd s

Hll 10 tPh d Isl d 90
P n k y, Cha 1 s C 1 1 60 at CI a 1 8

to S C Julj 4th 17 7 466
P per Colonel taken p o at Lon£, I lai d

297
P sc taqtia K \ er, the first ehip of w ar in New

England built there, i. 373.
Pitcairn, Lieut., anecdote of, on seeing his

Po I

Enoch 1 tt f 0 4J8
fl Id Col o 1 d at C mden
L ut n t t tl ptu 0 of G
40

D Bello the B t Bl N vy t 17
Po tsmouth ^ H T es d n 1 n

14 a c go of t tl tended f Lo d

No th ea d 8

Po ts no tl "\ a B t b1 t ko po scss on of

to

Potter, Colonel, of the Pennsylvania hattaUon,

551

,nn;;;:ofi'.c.

of tll<

Marines, (Br.,) at

. 155;Tories'at,i.
•re" at, ii. 449;
render of Corn-

rowcll, ' Joliir, ' Ciiptain, (Br.,) -n-ounded at
Mouiuoiith, ii. 69.

Powle'3 Hook, American battery at, i. 310;
Major Lce'B attack on, ii. 206 ; British ac-
cmmt "f till- oni.tun- of ; Sir Henry Clinton's
1, t....- tM T ..,-') i;,.,.m;,i„e on the, ii. 212.

Vt.-. II.,. i...\cTnor, noticeotji. 207;
' v.ition of St. Yankee's

I'l I I 1 .1 , 11 the battle of Long Isl-

rri^l'jl.'!..inH, r.illr.l WTiigs in Scotland, i.
195 ; til have a share of power in ^Vnienca,
i. 2.'iU , rrcachers have a great rage of light-
ing, I. 33S ; churches of the, burnt in Coil-
ne'cticiit and New York, ii 192; in New
York, debating upon the properest arts to
practise for tlieir profit, ii, 317.

Prescott, General, (Br.,) his situation com-
pared with Ethan Allen's, i. 226 ; his treat-
barbarity, i. 390 ; commands in Rhode Isl-
and, i.'4G4; t.ikeii prisoner by Colonel
'ewport, E. I., ii.

233.
Preston, Daniel, o

90.
Prevoat, General, i

.irisoner at Lexington, i.
Georgia, ii. 107 ; at Briar
Savannah, ii. 229.

Price, Charles, killed

Prichard, Captain, ii. a&u.

Prince, James, Captain, escapes from the
Good Ilnpe prifi.ii-ship, ii. 219.

Prince, Thomas, Rev , ins papers relating to
Now England, i. 374

Princeton, N. J., Declaration of Indepen-
dence read at ' ^""

Pris.

i-Shi]

.-^.,.. .72;ii.6M.
.New York, i. S74;

1 Good

Howc'sadventurewith t

i. 3+i ; the General Gal.

Proclamations, Lord Du

Proctor, Colui

70.
Prophecies, Bi

Philadelphi;

4S6;

Seven, Alexander Pe-
th Shipley's, ii. 30.
Providence, K. I., " nest of pirates at," i.

434 ; Arnold in effigy at, ii. 333.
Pruescheiiek, Lieutenant-Colonel, de, ii. 464.
I'rn— i.i. anecdote of the King of, ii. 309.
I'liilil.im lint Point, Ma,-s., Captain Mugford

[balls from the British
0fLe\in_- 1' -

DWashiii i ■ 1

Declarationof Congre*-- II i.i i " . ' I 'i,
i. 117; his" Post," i. Ill , hoi .,ij • m,.i.iU.1
at Prospect Hill, i. 117 ; presents Mr^. Gen-
eral Gago with a quarter of veal, i. 136;
Gen. Gago oft'era a premium for the head
" " 142 ; notice of, i. 146, 147 ; compared

196 ;

York,

dUector of the
ner to Gel
.254;

.the
' York,

Bos-

of, 803; " aa old black dog" advertised, a
favorite with the Washington family, i. 330 ;
English notice of, i. 337 ; kills a fo.^, taken

S'isoner and carried to Ticonderoga; at
unker Hill, 333 : his disagreement with
Warren, 339 , at New York, 340 ; has a
lisp in his speech ; is no favorer of Indepen-
dence, 341 ; Kigliy otters to box, 442 ; at
Horse Neck; Ins official account ofTryon's

m?nd"inai'i
Putnam, Jani

Quaker Hill,

favor of ind
Philadel]

•ith a bear.

fhis

I., Battle of, :
the patriots,

Qnakeri

York, ii. 149.
Quebec, blockade of,

' convicted of, in New
. 207 ; Montgomery'E

Queens Co., L. I., cats hunted in, i. 178.
Qnibbletown, N. J., tarring and feathering at,

i. 178 ; a whig account of a fight there, 1.

418 ; ii. 234.
Quincy, Dorothy, marries John Hancock, i.

ISO.
Quincy Edmund, i. 130.

Eahl, Colonel, at Trenton, i. 3S7 ; notice of,

Ramage, Smith, imprisoned at New York, i.
2S9.

Ramsey, Captain, at tho battle of Long Isl-
and, 1. 296, 297.

Ramsey, Doctor, his estimate of Col. Haj-ne,

Randolph Benjamin, i. 154.
Randolph, Nathaniel Fitz, taken prisoner at
Woodbridge, N. J., ii. 130 ; death of, ii.

of.

154.

I, Thomas, tarred and feathered,

178.
Ransom, Samuel, Captain, tortured at "Wv

ming, ii. 75.
Rjpelje, John, seized carrying sheep to tl

British, i.28S.
Rapelje, Rem, ridden on a rail at New Yor

versihed,

552

Rebellion, dcflned, i. 393.
Rebels, pimic^hmeut for the, i. 153.
" Reconciliation," opposed, i. 234.
Recruiting, the Bucceea of, in MasBaotaaetts,

and the South, ii, 162.
Red Bank, situation of, Donop'B attack on, in

1777, i. 514.
Red Hook, N. T., evacuated by the Amer-
icans, i. 304.
Reed, Captain, at Powle's Hcok, ii. 211.
Reed, Captain Mrs., notice of, ii. 297.
Reed, Joseph, patriotism of the wife of, ii.

342.
Keed, Lieutenant, at Powle's Hook, ii. 203.
Refugees, sufferings of the, ii.496.
" Regulars, " and Irregulars, compared, 1.

213.
Eemsen, Mrs., notice of, ii. 297.
Eencastle, Lieutenant, killed, ii. 136.
Rensselaer, Colonel, at Bennington, i. 480.
Republicans, tyranny of, i. 306.
Revere, Paul, notice of, i. 64, 69.
Rhode Island, forbids praying for the King,

1. 278 ; characteristics of the natives of, i.

391 ; actions of the French fleet at, ii. 84.
Rice, C.iptain, of the brig Convention^;. 523.
Richards, Captain, at the seizure of Riving-

Eichards, Smith,
Richards, on Gc;
Richmond, Duke

I of, i. 37, 45.

It Ciunden, ii. 259.

J opinion of the Amer-

i. 275.

Eider, Stephen, notice of, ii. 153.

Ridgefield, Conn., disapiiroves Congressional
measures, i. 22 ; General Arnold at, i. 424.

Eiedesel, Baron, at the battle of Stillwater, i.
497.

Eiedesel, Baroness de, opens tbebirtbdayball
at New York, with General P.ittison, ii. 264.

Eigby, . oners himself the champion of

England ; will box WashingtoD, Lee, or
Putnam, 1. 442.

Rittenhouse, David, 1. 352.

Eitzema, Colonel, at the White Plains, i. 336.

Eivington, James, apologizes for his publica-
tions against the Patriots, i. 74; his press
destroyed, i. 173 ■, sails for England ;
■ ' ' ' ' " jer to his Maj(

pointed cobweb-sweeper 1

Majesty, i

Robert, Captain, of Haverstraw, N. T. , ii. 360.
Roberts, Colonel, at Savannah, ii. 116.
Roberts, John, tarred and feathered at

Charleston, S. C, i. 359.
Robertson, General, (Br.,) i. Sll ; anecdote of,

ii. 110; anecdote of Clinton's cook, ii. 232 ;

notices of, ii. 305, 498 ; pleads for the life of

Robin

, 137 ;

Beverly, Colonel, at Horse Neck,
two of his sons captured at Stony
. 194 ; notice of, ii. 327.
, Colonel, of Dorchester, Mass.,

Point,
Eobinsc

i. 121.
Eochambeau, M. de, notices of, ii. 336, 395, 409,

418, 475, 606, 609, 510.
Rockport, Captain, (Br.,) at Yorktown, ii.516.
Rocky Mount, ii. 351.
Rocky River, the Americans at, ii. 351.
Rodgers, John, D. D., New York, i. 10.
Rodney, Sir George Brydges, account of the

capture of Andre, " ""'

Rogers, Major,_i. 289.

Rogers, ,

405.

Mr., of Philadelphia, i.

[ Roman Catholics, to have the ascendency in

America, ii. 47.
Romans and English compared, i. 17.
Roome, John, jr., taken prisoner, i. 290.
Roosevelt, I.s.aiic, i. 36.

Eoseburgh, Mr., Rev., Chaplain to Penn. mi-
litia, i. 421.
Ross, j35neas, preached fast day sermon at

New Castle, Delaware, i. 118.
Ross, Captain, notice of, i. 129 ; taken by the

Yankee Priv.ateer, i. 316.
Ross, Charles, Captain, (Br.,) the story of his

wife, ii. 173.
Ross, M.ajor, (Br.,) at Briar Creek, ii. 140; at

the surrender of Cornwallis, ii. 608.
Rowan County, N. C, ii. 362.
Roxburv Neck, Mass., fortiacations on, i. 63 ;

skirmish on, i. 109.
Royal African Regiment, notice of, ii. 33.
Royal Brute, ii. 499.
" Royal Villains," i. 319.
Rudolph, Captain, at Eutaw Springs, ii. 487.
Ruggles, Timothy, i. 8 ; his horse maltreated,

i. 38 ; notice of, i. 192, ii. 161.
Russel, James, of Boston, i. 81.
Russell, Seth, a prisoner at Lexington, i. 90.
Russians to be sent to America, i. 523.
Rutherford, General, wounded at Camden, ii.

Rutlcdge, John, Governor, notice of, ii. 273.
Rye Flats, N. Y., Horse race at, i. 49.
Rye, " Squire," ii. 439.
Ryerson, Captain, (Br.,) it 130.

Sabine, Captain, (Br.,) killed, 1. 124.
Sachem's Head, Conn., i. 442.
Sag Harbor, L. I., attack on, i. 442.
Salem, Mass., Colonel Leslie's expedition to,
i. 27, 42 ; appearance of the Dark Day, at,

Sandwich, Lord, i. 344; brands the Ameri-
cans " cowards," ii. 203.

Sandy Hook, the British at, ii. 70.

Sargent, Colonel John, notice of, i. 27.

Saugatuck River, Conn., Bkirmish on the, i.
425.

to™, Va., ii. 452.
Savannah, Ga., declaration of independence

read at, i. 283 ; the siege of, ii. 115 ; British

account of, ii. 221, 223 ; sufTerings of the

people in, ii. 225 ; reasons of the "defeat of

the Americans at, ii. 231, 626.
Saville, Sir George, supports the Americans,

iii. 247.

Sayre, , of Fairfield, notice of, ii. 187.

Scammell, Alexander, at Stillwater, i. 497 ;

extract of a letter from, ii. 450 ; killed at

Yorktown, ii. 518.
Schacfer, Lieutenant, ii. 454.
Schoonmaker, John, i. 24.
Bchutz, Captain, (Br.,) mortally wounded at

Guilford, ii. 406.
Schuyler, Philip, Gen., appointed to Wash-

ingtou'B stall', i. 96 ; reviews the troops at

553

Nc-n-Tork, i.l06 ; deprecates Ethan Allen's | Shnliricb, Captain, Aid-de-camp to General

attemiJt on iluntreal, i. 153, 169; has a -" " —

" top-knot of thirteen stiff hairs," il. 250.
Schuylkill River, British erect a battery ;

thel

uthc

,620.

ScofeUtes, march against Georgia, ii. 108.

Scott, Captain, of the British ship Experi-
ment, i. 258.

Scott, Captain, (Am.,) at the battle of Long
Island, i. 296.

Scott, John Morin, Governor of New York,
i. 283.

Screven, Colonel, killed in Georgia; notice
of, ii. 107.

Scuddcr, Colonel, Mrs., notice of, ii. 297.

Scndder, Nathaniel, Doctor, killed : notice of,
ii. 604.

Seahury, Samuel, D. D., i. 173.

Sears, Isaac, his argument with John Case,
i. 9 ; notices of, i. 36, ii. 602 ; at the destruc-
tion of Rivington's press, i. 173 ; adminis-
ters Gen. Lee's oath to the tories on Long
Island ; letter to Lee, i. 184.

" Seasonable Thoughts," 1. 189.

Seaver, Elijah, a prisoner at Lexington, i. 90.

Seconet River, R, I., British vessels destroyed
in, ii. 77.

Beely, Colonel, ii. 248.

Selden, Captain, wounded at Stony Point, ii.
194.

Selden, Lieutenant, of Va., wotmded at
Ninety-Six, ii. 441.

Seldon, Colonel, killed at Harlem, i. 311.

Selwyn, George, anecdote of, i. 349.

"Senator's Remembrancer," the, i. 448.

Senecas, General Sullivan and Colonel Erod-
hcad's expedition against the, ii. 216, 217.

" Sentiments of a Lady in New Jersey," ii.

Senti'on, Colonel, ii. 435.

Sermons, Leonard's, on the evacuation of
Boston, i. 223 ; on the evacuation of Boston
by Mr. Bridge, i. 226; Dr. Eliot's, at the re-
opening of the Thursday Lecture, i. 227 ; on
the inglorious retreat from Boston, i. 282.

Sevier, John, Colonel, at King's Mountain, ii.
338 ; notice of, ii. 369.

"Seven," the signification of the number, in

n," the sign
affairs of An

Sewall, Jonathan, attacked by a mob, i. 39 ;

an American informer, i. 193.
Sewell's Point, Mass., i. 120.
Scjton, J., Mrs,, notice of, ii. 297.
Shanks, Captain, of the Queen's Rangers, ii.

Shaw, , of Bucks Co., Pa., maltreated

by the rebels, ii. 15.
Shaw, Major, ii. 325.
Shelby, Isaac, Colonel, at King's Mountain,

ii, 339.
Sheldon, Colonel, at Bedford, N. Y.,ii. 177;

notice of, ii. 345 ; his activity at Tarrytown,

N.T.,ii. 459,460.
Sherburne, Edward, Major, notice of, J. 606.
Sherburne, Major, of Mass., wounded at

Quaker Hill,ii. 90.
Shcrbrook, Miles, notice of, ii. 65.
gliermnn, Lieutenant, notice of, ii. 266.
Sherman, Roger, received at New York, i, 75.
Shcriflm, Thomas, killed at Cherry VaUey,

Shipley, Elizabeth, her prophec
Shippen, Capt.iin, killed at Prin
Ships, first built in Ame-"-- ' '

:, capt;
, ii. 491.

Shuldham, Admiral, at Boston, i. 189, 212.

Sietogo, Indian town of, ii. 370.

Sill, , Major, (Br.,) killed, 1. 608.

SUlick, , Capt., at the seizure of Riving-
ton's Press, i. 174.

Silliman, General, at the 'Wliito Plains, i.
336 ; at Danbury, Conn., i. 423.

Simcoe, Lieutenant-Colonel, (Br.,) wounded
at Monmouth, ii. 69 ; visits Westchester,
N. Y., ii. 94 ; his enterprise in New Jersey,
ii. 233 ; a farther aeconnt, ii, 235 ; with Ar-
nold in Virginia, ii. 884; notice of, ii, 464.

Simmons, -, at Fort St, George, ii, 346.

SiraondSf Colonel, at Bennington, i. 480.

Simons, Captain, (Br,,)ii. 353.

Simpson, Captain, killed at Savannah, ii. 222.

Simsbury Mines, Connecticut, ii. 436.

Six Nations, General Sullivan and Colonel
Brodhead's expedition against the, ii. 216,
217.

Skeene, Colonel, a prisoner at Philadelphia,
i. 92 ; exchanged for James Lovel, i. 275,
846 ; at Bennington, i. 481.

Skinner, Cortlandt, appointed Colonel of
loyal Americans, i. 289 ; " Governor," an
" ungrateful man," i. 396 ; his cruelty, i.
421 ; at Sullivan's attack on Staten Island,
i. 483 ; notice of, ii. 306.

Slate, Mary, married, in gown of her own
weaving, i. 267.

Slavery, i. 188.

Slaves, Lord Duimiore promises freedom to.

;iM.

, Charles, of North Kingston, E. L, i.

Smallwood, William, Gen., at Long Island, i.
298 ; at the White Plains, i. 336 ; at Sulli-
van's attack on Staten Island, i. 482 ; at
Camden, ii. 312.

Smith, Brigadier-General, (Br.,) at the battle
of Quaker Hill, ii. 90.

Smith, Captain, at Powle's Hook, ii. 211.

Smith, Coen, of Duchess Co., N. Y., tarred
and feathered, i. 138.

Smith. Colonel, wounded at Fort Mifflin, i.
621 ;' proposes that Carolina shall remain
neutral, &c., ii. 162.

Smith, James, Judge of Duchess County, N.
Y., tarred and feathered, i. 138.

Smith, Judge, Mrs., notice of, ii. 297.

Smith, Lieut.-Col., at Staten Island, i. 326.

Smith, Thomas, in the Simsbury Mines, ii.

ii. 95.

Smith, William, D. D., preached a masonic
'" course at Philadelphia, ii. 115.

Snead, Major, at Eutaw Springs, ii. 486.

Soley, John, of Boston, i. 81.

Somerset County, N. J., martial spirit of the
inhabitants of, i. 88.
3ngs, see Poetry.

Sons of Liberty, " of two kinds— debauchees
and ministers, i, 43 ; of New York, thank
Vredenburg the barber, i. 146 ; in New
York, correspond with Washington, ii. 191.

South, movements of the Americans at the,
U. 351.

Southampton, Earl of, anecdote of, and Spen-
ser the poet, ii. 232.

South and North, i. 32.
3uth Carolina, provincial congress of, shuts
up the courts of, i. 13; letter from the
general committee of, to the committee of
New York, i. 59 ; rccommeuda the arming

gress, i. 159 : state
of affiiirs in, i. 165; wliitts In, i. 200; the
uniform of tlie rebels of, il. 23 ; the Amer-
icans at Charleston propoeo that she shall
remain neutral, ii. 162 ; operations in, ii.
318 ; the virtue of the -women of, ii. 442.
Bouthhold, Long Island, Hir William Erekino

Spaulding, Captain, see TVyomingr, ii. 76.
Spencer, General, notice of, ii. 44S ; at '\VTiit(

Plains, i. 335.
Spencer, , Kev., of Trenton, N. J., ii

620.
Spenser, anecdote of, ii. 232.
Springfield, Mass., courts at, closed, i. 39.
" ■ gfleld, N. J., Knyphausen's descent on

Sprout, Lioutenant-Colonel, at Quaker Hill.

ii. 89.
Spies, Washineton's antipathy for, ii. 249.
Sq.uires, Capt. Matthew, (Br.,) commander of

the Otter, 1. 139.
St. Augustine, Tory excursion from, ii. 108.
St. Clair, Gen., notice of, ii, 106.
St. James', Honesty ran .-iivay from, i. 308
St. John, see Sention, ii. 435.
St. Leger, Colonel, (Br.,) at Fort Schuyler, i.

478; notice of, ii. 205.
St. Patrick's day, celebrated in New York, ii.

151 ; entertainment in honor of, at Jamaica,

L. I., ii. 261 ; Washington orders the cele-
bration of, ii. 263.
St. Simon, Marquis de. appearance of his

troops, ii. 485, 510.
St. TammanyLjiotice of, ii. 236.
St. Yankee's Day, celebrated in London, i.

231.
Stacey, Lieutenant-Colonel, at Cherry Valley,

ii. 105.
Stakes, Captain, wounded at Jamestown, Va.,

ii. 453.
Stamford, Conn., Tories in, seize the powder,

i. 18.
Stamp Act, celebration of, at Cambridge,

Mass., i. 127.
Stanly, Captain, (Br.,) performs at the John

470.

Stanton, Ma,ior, at Bennington, i. 480 ; See
William Barton, i. 467.

Stark, John, Gen., at Bennington, Vt. i. 479.

Staten Island, N. Y. , skirmish between Amer-
ican Riflemen on, at the ship of war Asia,
i. 231 ; watering jilacc on, to De poisoned by
Washington, i. 299 ; General Mercer's de-
scent on, i. 325 ; General Sullivan's descent
Oil, i. 482, 484; Lord Stirling's attempt on,
ii. 252 ; horses driven from, to New York,
onthelce, ii. 258.

Statesmen, American, came from nothing, ii.
22.

Steam Engine, cylinder for, first cast at New
York, i. 23.

Steen, the German, discovers Zedwitz's let-
ter, i. 300.

Stephen, Brig. -Gen. at the battle of Princeton,
i. 369.

Stephenson, Captain, (Br.,) wounded at Mon-
mouth, ii. 69.

Sterne, Geiier;il, (Br.,) i. 450.

Sterret, Lieutf-nant, at the battle of Long Isl-

, 1.181.

Stevens, Colonel, at the celebration of the an-
niversary of the French alliance, ii. 132,

Stevens, General, at Guilford, 1781, ii. 400.

Stevens, E,, Mrs, notice of, ii. 297,

Steward, Stephen, British destroy the house
of, ii. 412.

Stewart, Colonel, (Am.,) at Monmouth, ii, C7.

Stewart, Colonel, (Br.,) at Eutaw, 1781, ii.
491.

Stewart, Major, at Sullivan's attack on Staten
Island, i. 485.

Stewart, John, his " Senator's Remembran-
cer," i. 448.

Stewai;t, " Squire," ii. 439.

Stiles, Ezra, Doctor, i. 116.

Stillwater, battle of, i. 497, 498.

Stirling, Lady Kitty, at the celebration of the
French alliance, ii. 52.

Stirling, Lady, notice of, ii. 297.

Stirling, Lieutenant-Colonel, (Br.,) attempts
to surprise Elizabethtown, N. J., ii. 135;
wounded at Connecticut Farms, ii. 288.

Stirling, Lord, hunting Tories,!, 198 ; "killed,"
i. 290 : at Long Island, i. 296 ; taken pris-
oner, I. 297: anecdote of, i. 320; deprecates
severity to the Tories, 1, 358 ; at Trenton
Falls, N. J,, i. 369 ; narrow escape of, i. 449 ;
at the celebration of the alliance with
France, ii. 60 ; his descent, ii . 204 ; notice
of, ii. 16, 209, 336 ; declines the southern
command, ii. 248 ; hia attempt on Staten
Island, ii. 252; skirmishes with Knyphausen,
; tampered with by the firitish, ii.

389.

Stone, William,

1 of the

.474,

.443.

iited !

, Hartford, Conn.,

Stonington, Conn., British tender at, i. 131.

Stono Ferry, battle of, bravery of the Ameri-
cans at, ii. 170, 171, 172.

Stony Point, General Wayne captures, ii.
192 ; British account of, ii. 194; the capture
of, criticized by a Tory, ii. 196 ; Sir Henry
Clinton's soUloquy on the storming of, ii.
200.

Stormont, Lord, watching Doctor Franklin, i.
387 ; anecdote of, i. 389'; ii. 354.

Stowe, Timothy, Captain, of Dcdham, Mass.,
i. 326.

Stratford, Conn., an odd affair at, i. 219.

Straubenzee, M.a.ior, (Br.,) surprises Mrs.
Washington's Cruards, ii. 96.

Strong, Benajah, notice of, ii, 347.

Stuart, John, British superintendent of In-

Fairfield, Conn,,

ii. 188.

Stuyvesant, , i. 310.

" Subaltern," a criticism on Cornwallis' letter

to General Clinton, on the reduction of

Yorktown, by a, ii. 518.
Suffolk Resolves, Mass., i. 16.

, County, N. Y., inhabitants of, give

upt
Sullivan'
attack on, i, 257, :
Sir Peter Parker'

.305.

Island, S. C, Sir Peter Parker's

, i. 257, 269, 277 ; representation of

[iction at, in England, i.

lullivan, John, General, notice nf, i. 63, 303 ;
ii. 248, 619; taken prisoner .at the battle of
Long Island, i, 297 ; at the b.attle of Trenton,
i. 365 ; protests against the departure of the
French Fleet froin Rhode Island, it 87 ; at
Quaker Hill, ii. 89 ; to he enrolled among the

heroes of JTow England, ii. 91 ; liie difficult}'
■with Count D'Estaing, challenged by La-
fayette, ii. 93 : exiietlition against the In-
dians, ii. 216.

Sumner, Jethro, General, at Eutaw Springs,
ii. 486.

Sumpter, Thomas, General, at Stono Ferry,
ii. 171 ; at Camdon, ii. 311 ; amusing Lis
troops on a " nutting party," ji. 313 ; defeated
hy Tarleton, ii. 321 ; notice of, ii. 361.

Supple, Lieutenant, (Br.,) ii. 293.

Sussex County, N. J., militia of, go in search
of Tories, i. 182.

Sutherland, Major, <Br.,) escapes from Powle's
Hook, ii. 206 ; notice of, ii. 617.

Sutton, Captain, at Fort St. George, ii. 345.

Swashan, a chief of the St. Francis Indians,
i. 127.

Swecsy, Caleb, ii. 466.

Swcctser, John, of Boston, i. 81.

Switzerland, France renews her alliance vrith.

Taggart, Mrs., notice of, ii. 297.

Talmadire, Benjamin, Colonel, reduction of
Fort St. George, ii. 344 ; at Coram, L. I.,
347.

Tallman, Mrs., notice of, ii. 297.

Tappan, skirmish near, ii. 96.

Tar and Feathers, in Boston, i. 44, 56, 67 ; at
Charleston, S. C, i. 90 ; administered hy
southern soldiers, i. 123; in Duchess Co.,
ISr.Y.,i. 138; at Quibbletown, N. J., i. 178 ; a
woman threatened with, i. 219 ; origin of, i.
226, 292 ; John Roberts, at Charleston, S. C,
i. 369.

Tarleton, Lieut.-Colonel, (Br..) visits West-
chester, N. Y. , ii. 94 ; his attack on Bedford,
N. Y., ii.l77; at Camden, ii. 315 ; defeated
at the Cowpens, ii. 375 ; at Guilford, ii. 401,
403 ; notices of, 465,471, 486, 524.

Tarrytowii, X. Y., action at, ii. 469.

TatmiU's, near Savannah, American works
at, ii. 221.

Tawes, Captain, (Br.,) defeats Count Pulaski,
ii. 162 ; killed at Savannah, ii. 222.

Taylor, John, i. 37.

Tazewell, John, notice of, i. 242.

Tea, Boston wives must buy it, i. 140 ; tho
cause of tho Revolution, i. 168 ; trouble at
Fishkill, N. Y., on account of selling, i.
287.

Telasse, Indian town of, ii. 370.

Telico, Indian town of, ii. 370.

Temple, , Mr., of Charleston, Mass.,

American fortiOcations on the land of, i.
111.

Terry, Partial, the cruelty of, at "Wyoming,

Tl :.. -i: : . ■ . . 1, :d Punk Hill, N. J., i. 406.

■I'^ I ^ ■ M Fnrt Mifflin, i. 522.

■ ' ^ ' -izette," burned at Sudhurj',

1,1 Ai , i I I Vii-ar of Bray,apoem, ii. 174.
'liieau-'s ; iii-oiution of Congress against,

ii. lul ; Eiitish officers act in, at New

York, ii. 391.
" The Bishop," of Poughkeepsie, N. Y., ii.

439.
" The Blank Letter," sent to Consress, ii. 16.
The Congratulation, a poem, ii. 230.
The Crisis, pubUshed in England, 1775, i. 176,
The expedition to Danbury, a poem, i, 428,
The expedition to Rhode island, a poem, ii.

" inc &iiin-cmacy ni I'ariianicnt," a l.avorite
tei-m of tho ministry, ii, 82,

The Yankee Privateer, taken by tho British,
i, 316,

Thirteen ; a mystical figure of tho Amer-
icans, ii, 61 ; a rebel number, ii, 250,

Thomas, Captain, i, 292,

Thomas, Colonel, of N, J., i. 205.

Thomas, Elias, of Boston, i. 81.

Thomas, General John, at Roxbury, Mass.,
i. 84 ; takes Dorchester Heii-'lits, i. 211 ; a
favorite of Washington, died at Sorel, in
Canada, i. 340.

Thomas, Mens., his poem, Jnmonville, ii. 396.

Thomas, , Mr., counsellor at Plymouth,

Mass., i. 41.

Thompson, Barney, piper to Rawdon's regi-
ment, ii. 261.

Thompson, Capt., (Br.,) wounded, U. 465.

Thompson, Colonel, of Pa., i. 167.

Thompson, Ensign, killed, N. Y., ii. 382.

Thompson, Lieutenant, killed at Springfield,

Tho'mpEon,"MarEh, Col., of Sussex, N. J., i.

Thompson, WUliam, General, notice of, ii.

106, 476.
Thomson, Charles, notice of, i. 266, ii. 378 ;

called "nosey," i. 517.
Thomson, Mrs, notice of, ii. 297.
Thurman, John, i. 34.

Thursday Lecture, rv-ivM , •■-r -■■ i 'JiO.
Ticonderoga, capture n; " ' ' ih-

quako .at, i. 112; liii.- ■• ■ . i.i.

Tilley, Captain, of the Charming Peggy
Tniy, Mons^de, of the French Navj-; ii.'409.

'Timothy Standfast," appeal 1
• '■,358.

Tipton, Major, of S. C, ii. 370.
Titcomb, Colonel, at Quaker Hill, ii. 89.
Titles, of Excellency and Honorable, to ho

abandoned, i. 268.
Tiverton, R. I., British descent on,ii. 5,5.
Toasts, Arithmetical, i. 22.
Tom Thumb, played at New York, 1777, i.

386.
Tonant, Colonel, at Charleston, S. C, 1780, ii.

271.
Tonyn, Governor, ii. 107.
Toque, Indian town of,ii. 370.
Tory, definition of a, i. 19 ; orign of the term,

i. 194.
Totten, Lieuten.ant, (Br.,) ii. 363, 427.
Townsend, Mrs., notice of, ii. 297.
Tracy, James, Capt., of the Yankee Hero

priv.ateer, i. 284.
Travis, Lieutenant, at Great Bridge, Va., i.

ISO.
Treat, Captsiin, killed at Fort Mifdin, i. 6-21.
Trelawney, Lieutenant Colojjel, (Br,,) at

Monmouth, ii. 69.
Trenton, N. J., Declaration of Independence

read at, i. 209 ; the battle of, i. 304 ; reason

of tho success of tho Americaiis at, i, 3S7 ;

notice of, ii. 620.
Trinity Church, in New York, i, 402.

Tryon, Governov, nn-ived at New York, i.
101 ; Congress of New York, disapprove an
address to, i. 107 ; ordered to consider the
Colonics in rebellion, i. 138 ; his message to
the New Yorkers in 1776, i. 216; effigy, i.
223 ; receives a letter from Colonel Zedwitz,
299 ; Tories of New York, address, i.
323, 332 ; notice of, i. 408 ; his expedition to
D:mbury, Conn., i. 426 ; Poetical account
of, 42S ; sends the Conciliatory Bills into
New Jersey, ii. 38 ; descent on Horse Neck,
ii. 137 ; at New Haven, ii. ISO ; address to

Tucker, Samuel, Governor of New Jersey, i

Turnbull, GcorG:e, of the Royal American
Regiment at Fort Montgomery, i. 609.

Turner, Doctor, i. 434.

Turtles, a car[;o of, intended for Lord North,
taken into rortsinouth, N. H., i. 278.

Tuttlo, , maltreated at New Haven, ii.

182.

Twiggs, Colonel, hi,^ expedient, ii. 292.

Tvler, General, at Quaker Hill, ii. 89.

Tympany, Major, at Staten Island, 1777, i. 483.

Tyuc, John, wounded at Lexington, i. 89.

Union exemplified, i. 198.

Union Flag, of New York, i. 35 ; unfolded at
Williamsburg, Va., on Iho day the Con-
vention voted for independence, i. 242.

United State.'!, the future of the, ii. 145; will
crouch to France, ii. 14G ; the bible to bo
strictly prohibited in ; Roman Catholic

for a cathedra"!, ii. 148 ; To Deum celebrated
throughout the ; political prisoners pri-
vately beheaded, &c., ii. 149.

Valentine's Hill, Tarleton attacks the rebels

there, ii. 95.
Valley Forge, the American army at, i. 527 ;

ii. 10 ; celebration of the French Alliance

at, ii. 48.
Valnais, M. de, at Harvard College, ii. 213.
Van Binschola, Jacob, his house burned, i. 17.
Van Burcn, Major, carried to New York, ii.

97.
Van Buskirk, Colonel, (Br.,) excursion into

New Jersey, ii. 255.
Van Clove, B., Mrs., notice of, ii. 297.
Van Cortlandt, August
" ' •, Capt., of th

ecdote of Earl Percy
Vanderbilt, Jeremiah, i. 295.
Vanderville, Lieut., at Powle's Hook, ii. 211.
Van Dyke, James, i. 37, 45.
Van Home, Augustus, l.aken prisoner, i. 290.
Van Home, Garret, i. 12.
Van Home, Miss Joanna, married, i. 12.
Van Kii-k, John,ii. 125.

Van Mater, , maltreated, ii. 220.

Van Ness, " Squire," ii. 439.
Van Pelt, Lieutenant, ii. 16.
Van Rachter, Lieutenant, killed at Fort

Edward, i. 476.

Van Schaack, Colonel, commands the expedi-
tion against the Onondaga Indians, ii. 153 ;
pursues Sir John Johnson, ii. 285.

Van Tassel, , of Tarrytown, taken by

Tarleton at Bedford, N. Y., ii. 177,

Van Wart, Isaac, captures Major Andre, ii.

VanE.ant, Mrs., notice of, ii. 297.

Varnum, James M., Gen., ii. 89.

Vaesall, Colonel of Cambridge, Mass., 1. 40.

■^'aughn, (Br.,) i. 460 ; ii. 164.

Veazey, Captain, killed at Long Island, i.

Venango, oil springs near, ii. 218.

"VentidiuB, " remarks on the career of Sir
William Howe in America by.ii. 142.

Vermont jeoplo of New York flee to, ii. 439.

Vetei-an House, the, at Philadelphia, i.479.

" Viator, " an account of the Dark Day in
1780 by, ii. 281.

Vienna, the Congress of, ii. 446.

Viets, Roeer,Rev., a ConnecticutTory,i, 398.

Villiers, M. de, at the Great Meadows, ii. 397.

Vincent, William, Ensign, notice of, ii. 323.

Viomenil, Baron de, ii. 409, 610.

Viomenil, Count de, ii. 510.

Virginia, the people of, abhor Lord Dunmore,
i. 121 ; independence advocated by a
citizen of, i. 204 ; votes for independence,
i. 241 ; celebration in honor of the act, i.
242 ; lines to, on voting for independence,
i. 243 ; change in the church service in, i.
266 ; appeal to the people of, by Timothy
Standfast, ii. 358 ; Arnold's expedition into,
ii. 366, 384 ; " must yield to Cornwalhs, " ii.
458 ; Cornwallis acknowledges the bravery
of themUitia of, ii. 471; "bravery of the
troops of, at Eutaw Springs, ii. 490,492;
affairs in, in October, 1781, ii. 501.

Virginians, i. 32 ; address to, on the destruc-
tion of Norfolk, i. 191.

Voorhies, Captain, killed at Brunswick, N. J.,
ii. 234.

Vredenburgh, Jacob, the patriotic barber, i.

Wallace, Alexander, imprisoned in New York,

i. 289.
Wallace, Hugh,i. 102, 289.
W.illacc, James, Capt., (Br.,) i. 289.
Wallace, Sir James, taken by the French, ii.

229.
" Walsingham," remarks on the depreciation

of paper money by, ii. 422.
'* Waltho Van Clutterbank," his harangue,

i. 488.
Walton, Abraham, i. 36 ; captured by the re-
bels, ii. 172.
Walton, Col., wounded at Savannah, ii. 116.
Wangonheim, Captain, ii. 454.
Wanton, Joseph, anecdote of, ii. 233.
Wanton, Joseph, Jr., refuses to take General

Lee's oath, i. 183.
War, what is it? i. 391.
Ward, ArtemuB, appointed to Washington's

stall', i. 90 ; at the evacuation of Boston, i.

220.
Ward, Nancy, the famous Indian woman, ii.

370.
Ward, Stephen, skirmish at the house of, in

Westchester, i. 409.
Ward, Thomas, Captain, (Br.,) ii. 348.

557

Old Peggy, a creditor of General
Arnoia, ii. 379.

Warner, Seth, Colonel, at Hubbardton, i. 472 ;
at Bennington, i. 480.

"Warren, Joseph, General, his oration on the
Boston Massacre, criticised, i. 34 ; at the
exchange of the Lexington Prisoners, i. 89 ;
killed at Bunker Hill, i. 98 ; letters fonnd in
his pocket, i. 110 ; scheme to seize him, i.
157 ; his remains re-interred ; Morton's
oration on, i. 229 ; " addicted to liquor," i.
339 ; notice of, ii. 620.

Warren, Sir Peter, ii, 203.

Warren, R. I., British descent on, ii. 68.

Wai-warsing, N. T., burning of, ii. 468.

Washington, elected commander in chief of

■ to subdue America,

100 ; sets out
__.' the army'at Cambridge, Maes. ; arrives
at New York, i. 101 ; his answer to the ad-
dress of the New York Congress ; escorted
from New York, i. 104 ; child named after,
i. 121; called "George Washington, Esq,"
i. 129, 272 ; anecdote of, i. 190 ; " another
Lord Essex," i. 196 ; eepiirated from his
■wife, i. 201 -, his skill m driving the British
from Boston, i. 222 ; at the reopening of the
Thursday Lecture in Boston, i. 226 j dines
at the " ISunch of Grapes," a tavern in Bos-
ton, i. 227; dinner to .it New York, i. 254 ;
conspiracy to kill at New York, i. 255 ; in-
terview with Colonel Patterson, i. 272 ; In
effigy ; i. 277, 278 ; will burn New York,
rather than re*reat, i. 288; his magazines in
Cortlandt's Manor, N. Y., i. 291 ; ejaculation
at the battle of Long Island, i. 297 ; accused
of a design to poison the wells at Statcn
Island, i. 299 ; loves Putnam, his army eats
kittens ami drinks cider-rum, i. 330 ; the
Devil only knows his movements, i. 357 ; or-
ders the corn. , &c. , in New Jersey, destroyed
i. 358 ; at Trenton, i. 3M ; appointed Dic-
, 367 ; " the first or last of men," i.
Princeton, i. 371 ; notice of, in 1777,
1. 381 ; " the Lord Protector," his procLaraa-
tion in 1777, in answer to the Howes, i. 383 ;
proclamation criticized, 384 ; "the best man
living", i. 396 ; has no buttons on his cloth-
ing, i. 399, 401 ; compared with Cromwell,
i. 434 ; Mr. Rigby oftcrs to box, i. 442 ; for-
bids gaming in the army, i. 444; at Quibble-
town, N. J., i. 448; mavclies through Phila-
delphia 1777, i. 486 ; general orders issued
at Wilmington, Sept. 5th , 1777, i. 492 ; burnt
in effigy at Edmonton, England, i. 519 ; re-
turns the paper money to Congress, ii. 15 ;
" supplies rags for making paper
16 ; Moloch favors ; Soutliern
States strengthen the hands of, ii. 28 ; how ho
lost his senses^, ii. 35; his appearance at the
celebration of the French .alli.anoo.ii. 62;
accused of " trapping" tho New England-
ers, ii. 56 ; at Monmouth, ii. 67 ; notice of,
ii. 76, 168 ; a portrait of, presented to Count
D'Estaiiie, by John Hancock, ii. 101 ; a
junto at Philadelphia, to depose, ii. 106; at
the French ball in PhUadelphia, ii. 110 ; his
proclamation requiring fat cattle criticised,
ii. 117 ; his portrait, painted by Pcalo, ii.
126 ; at tho celebration of tho anniversary
of the French Alliance at Pluckemin, N. J.,
ii. 131 ; his "scaled miserablcs, chop-fallen,"
ii. 178 ; wears out three pairs of breeches, in

his array i

Congress

sitting for liis i-vju...., a.. *».« , ^..
requests the Court of I-'rance to find a j)re-
text for getting rid of, ii. 221 ; meditates an
attack on New York, ii. 237, 309 ; narrow
escape from drowning, ii. 248 ; sketch of the
general appearance and habits of, attends
divine service regularly ; has a great antipa-
thy to spies, ii. 249 ; drinks a glass of punch
after supper, 250 ; has thirteen toes on liis
feet, U. 250 ; orders the celebration of St.
Patrick's Day ; tory remarks on, ii. 263 ; on
a secret visit to Elizabethtown, N. J., ii.
267 ; a short sketch of the life and character
of, by an English writer, ii. 300; his per-
sonal appearance ; his face marked with tho
small pox ; a total stranger to religious pre-
judices, 301 ; King of Prussia presents his
portrait to, ii. 309; discovers Arnold's treach-
ery, ii. 325 ; Andre's letter to, ii. 330 ; re-
ceives a letter of resignation from Arnold,
ii. 332 ; playing the game of " Goose," ii.
341 ; much in the French interest, ii. 389 ; at
Fort Necessity, ii. 396 ; Doctorate of Laws,
conferred upon, ii. 420; Rivington accuses
him of " fibbing," ii. 456; called the " mur-
derer of Andre," ii. 457 ; leaves White Plains,
ii. 465; at Philadelphia, August 1781, ii. 475 ;
portrait of, defaced at Philadelphia, Riving-
ton's remarks on, ii. 493 ; at Yorktown, ii.
602, 604 ; notices of, ii. 606, 617, 519 ; con-
gratuIateB the Americana on the reduction
of CornwaUis, ii. 610.

Washington, Lady, Assembly of Pennsylva-
nia present a coach to, i. 446 ; the Virginians
present a medal to, arrives at Williamsburg,
Va., i. 477 ; at the celebration of the Frencli
alliance, ii. 51 ; her guards, surprised by
Major Str.aubenzce, ii. 96 ; notice of, ii. 131 ;
has a cat she calls " Hamilton," ii. 250.

Washington, WiUiam A., Colo
party of British, I ""
271 ; at Guilford,
at Hobkirk'a Hill, ii, 41
473 ; at Eutaw Springs

Waterbury, Conn., i. 398

Waterbury, General, not

Watson, Lieutenant-Colo

Watts, John, an Amerii

Watts, John, Jr., marrk
i. 290.

Wayne, Gener.al, attar 1^
i.498; at Monmouth, ii
Point, ii. 192; anecdote i

rChar

ii. 204 ;

irgen,
dues the revolt of the Fennsyh a

3 blockhouse at Berg

,N.J.,

.son; snl-i-

374; frightens Cornwallis at Jamestown,
Va., ii. 450 ; wounded in Virginia, ii. 497.

Webb, Colonel, at White Plains, i. SCO ; anec-
dote of his fifer boy, ii. 11.

Webster, Grant, of Boston, i. 61.

Webster, Lieutenant-Colonel, (Br.,) ii. 195 ;
at tho battle of Camden, li. 319 ; at Guil-
ford, ii. 401, 404.

Weddcrburu, , his attack on Dr. Frank-
lin, i. 74.

Wccrten, George, General, at Gloucester, Va.,

-, Dr., his notice of Tories, i

558

. necount of the, i. 50.

Wftl,.r,--.cl.l, i:..i,„., il,ir;ilon8 Kfw York,
i. 70 ; coiiiixmy of, Mttmda tho exchange of
Lexington prieoners, i. 90.

Weymouth, Mass., British attempt to land at,

■Wcmyss, Major, ii. 351 ; ii. 494.

Wharton, Thoma,e, Jr., President of Pcnn-

fylvania, i. 400.
Wheeler, Timothy, anecdote of, i. 65.
Wheeloek, Colonel, at Ticonderoga, i. 326.
Whigs, origin of, i. 194 ; " sour milk," i. 196 ;

more to he feared from Interested, than all

the Tories, U. 424.
Whildcn, Mrs., notice of, ii. 297.
Whitcomb, Col. at tho Nautasket expedi-
tion, i. 251.
Whitcomb, Deacon, of Lancaster, Mass., "an-
ecdote of, i. 190.
White, William, D. D., Bishop, notice of, ii.

114 ; officiates at tho funeral of William

Henrj' Drayton, ii. 215.
White, Captain, ii. 380.
■\Vhite Horse Tavern, on tho Lancaster (Pa.)

road, i. 499.
Whitehurst, Thomas, killed in a stamp riot,

1. 223.
Wliitemarsh, skirmish at, i. 626.
AVliite Plains, N. T., Loyal meeting at, i. 61 ;

battle of, i. 335.
Whiting, Major, of Dedham,Mass.,at Cherry

Valley; ii. 105. •*

Whitmore, Gurdon, a Connecticut Torj', i.

398.
"WTiitney, Colonel, at the Nantaskct exi^edi-

tion, i. 251.
Wickoff, Jacob, Mrs., notice of, ii. 297.
Wigfall, Joseph, anecdote of, ii. 276.
Wiggles-worth, Colonel, at Quaker HiU, ii.

88.
Wilcox, Ensign, at the capture of General

Prescott, i. 470.
Wilde, Jonathan, i ■ • ■ •' • j'\
Wilkes, John, oti; i ^ , , , .

to John HancHL l^ i I
Wilkcsbarre, Pa., ^.- W \-i n,-. Ii. 71.
Willett, Marinus, at i'ecli«liili, K. V., i. 4Hi ;

notice of, i. 478 ; at tliu exiieditiou against

the Onondaga Indians, ii. 154.
William Henry, Prince, arrival of, at Kew

York, 497 ; his address to the citizens, 499 ;

whig criticism on, called " William Henry

Guelph," ii. 499.
Williams, , Mr., taken prisoner by

Lord Dunmore, i. 171.
Williams, , promoter of the Deerfield

(Mass.) instructions, ii. 440.
Williams, Colonel, at Guilford, 1781, ii. 400 ;

at Eutaw Springs, ii. 4S6.
Williams, David, captures Major Andre, ii.

326.
Williams, Ezekiel, a tory, killed, ii. 125.
Williams, Henry, ii. 439.
Williams, Israel, maltreated, i. 42.
Williams, J., Captain, ii. 380.
Williams, James, Colonel, ii. 339.
Williams. Job, cut do-n-n IBoston liberty tree ;

i. 131

I Williams, John, of Boston, i. 81.
Williams, Samuel, Captain, of Cambridce,

Mass., at B.attle of Lexington, i. 66.
Willinmsliura, ^'a., reception of the news of

battle of Lexington at, i. 75 ; Peyton Ran-

doljjh's reception at, i. 88 ; magazine at,

exploded, i. 162,
Willi.anison, General, at Anc'ust.i, ii. 259.
■\Mlliamson, Andrew, eaptuJ-ed by the rebels,

ii. 447 ; released by Major Frazer, 448.
Wills, Thomas, Captain,' (Br.,) at Monmouth,

ii. 69.
Wilmington, Del., ii. 31.
Wilmington, N. C., Corn-wallis at, ii. 525.
Wilmot, Captain, at Powlc's Hook, ii. 211.
Wilson, , a collector of New Jersey,

Wilson,. Jonathan, Captain, of Bedford, Mass.,

wonud'-d at Lexington, i. 66.
Wilson, Joseph, i. 37.
Windiel.-.a, E;,il "f, his son killed, i. 449.
Wi-i 1- Wi'" :i,:. Brigadier General, his in-

^\ . ;n. C, CornwaUis retreats

■\\ ! - «, J.l.v, 1.1, of Plymouth, Mass., ii.

Wingard, Seth,
321.

letter from, ii.

Major at King's Mountain, ii 340
«utciJlill Amcucansfoitify, 1 98
■Risnci, Old, (Hcniy),u 439
AYillRispoon John, D D , in effigy, i 277

easily baited b\ Washington, l 445
Wolft, Captain, (Br ) killed, i 499
Women , petition of the Old, of Philadelphia
1 30 anecdote of a patiiotic, i 71 , lines to
the Boston i 140 , of Kindcrhook, N Y ,
tarand feather a tolj,i 141 biavcryofa
New Jerse\ womm, i 409 , BritiBh soldiery
al use the, i 421 of Amelia, County, Va ,
will net recene the adduss of any peison,

aimj, 1 J 1 IT 1 aid

ing th I ^ J ,

i\ear tl 1 ik,

fit out tl 119,

tl U 1 14,

1 I 1 t^ lf-tiiiing»de

\\i ,11 loO the story of

I 1 urterings of the, dming

ih, 11 228 patriotism of

^ C , 11 279 the senti

I'nrc^nionij loT till' i7i rf°tTie"\meiican
Aimj 11 296 patiiot in ot tlii. Minlmd,

341

Chaili

the briti-l

of them, 11 430 , the

Wood, Joseph, 11 439

Woodl nd£,i.,N J tory hunters set out from,
1 198 1 oticu of, 1 40a, Butsh descent

Woidf 1 1 William C 1 niaichedfoi there
liLf ol ^ if U A 1 1 1-1 at tho battle ol
Gleit Budge 1 1 0 kttLi fiom to Ed
mund Pendleton, 1 ISu aiii\co at Charles

Wooihull, Nathaniel Gent i il at the bat lo
of Long Island, i 303 maltreated by tlic

i. 105, 106 ; dinner to, i. 107 ; at Hoatli's

attempt on Fort Independence, i.400; at

DanbDry,Conn., In. 1777, i.424 ; biographical

notice of, i. 432.
"Worcely, Benjamin, killed at Cherry Valley,

ii. 106.
Woicestcr, Mass., courts at prevented from,

i, .'^O; r.iitisli prisoners confined at, i. 77 ;

TMii.s (lisarmed at, i. 83.
■\Viulit, Lieut., (Br.,) at Hampton, Va., i.

?"urm, de. Colonel, ii. 455.

i'yllya. Colonel, i. 19.

ryniuitz. Lieutenant, captured by the

ng, the maesacre at, i

played at the destruction of Riviiieton's
press in New York, i. 174 ; pl.ayed at the
celebration of St. Yankee's day in London,
!. 233.

Yankee Hero, privateer, account of her cap-
ture, i. 284. "^ '

" Yawnings of Tautology," i. 173.

York, Pa., Congress meets at, i. 618.

York County, Pa., riflemen annoy the Britisll
in Boston, i. 124.

York, Sir Joseph, anecdote of his reception
at the Hague, i. 447 ; notice of, ii. 245.

Yorktown, Va., afl'airs at 1781, Ii. 464,485 ; the
sii-'C of, commenced, ii. 497; skirmish
before; British evacuate Pigeon quarter ;
General Weeden and Duke de Lauzun at
Gloucester, ii. 501 ; situation of the French
shipping at, ii. 502 ; a card to the British at ,
ii. 603; 'invested, ii. 504; CornwalHs' sur-
render ; appearance of the British troops
% ii. 508 ; Cornwallis' report of the siege

■■ 7.

Mon-

Zedwitz, Colonel, letter to Governor Tryon,
ZuHy, John J. D. D.', at Congress, i. 119.